Halogenation of star-branched butyl rubber with improved neutralization

摘要

A process for halogenating star-branched butyl rubber is provided wherein water and a wetting agent or wetting agent precursor are added to a solution comprising the star-branched butyl rubber, solid particles of branching agent and an organic solvent prior to the neutralization step to increase the rate of neutralization of the hydrogen halide by-product of the halogenation reaction.