Latex

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Latex is a natural or synthetic colloidal dispersion of polymer microparticles in an aqueous medium. Natural latex is harvested from rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis) and appears as a milky fluid rich in rubber particles suspended in water. Synthetic latexes are produced from various monomers such as styrene-butadiene or acrylics. Latex exhibits excellent elasticity, flexibility, and adhesive properties. It is widely used in manufacturing gloves, balloons, coatings, adhesives, paints, and various molded products. Its film-forming ability, water resistance, and durability make it a versatile material across industries.

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Category: Binders/Resins Tags: Latex, Liquid Rubber, Natural Latex, Paints & Coatings, Synthetic Latex, Water-Based Emulsion

Description

Table of Contents

Latex

Primary Uses

Medical and Healthcare

Manufacturing of disposable gloves, catheters, and medical tubing due to its flexibility, barrier properties, and comfort.
Used in wound dressings and adhesives.

Rubber Products Manufacturing

Production of balloons, condoms, elastic bands, and rubber threads.
Used in foam rubber products such as mattresses and pillows.

Adhesives and Coatings

Key ingredient in natural rubber adhesives for bonding paper, wood, fabric, and other substrates.
Used in latex paints and coatings for water resistance and elasticity.

Textiles and Footwear

Employed as a binder in textile coatings and carpet backing.
Used in shoe soles and protective covers.

Secondary Uses

Arts and Crafts

Used for making molds, masks, and special effects in theater and film due to its flexible film formation.

Construction Industry

Incorporated in concrete additives and sealants to improve water resistance and flexibility.

Household Products

Found in household gloves, sponges, and elastic bands.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Poly(cis-1,4-isoprene) for natural latex; varies for synthetic latex
Common/Trade Name: Latex; Natural Rubber Latex; Synthetic Latex
CAS Number: 9006-04-6 (natural rubber latex)
HS Code: 4001.10.00 (natural rubber latex)
Synonyms: Rubber latex; Natural latex; Synthetic latex

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Milky liquid (dispersion)
Color & Odor: White to pale yellow; characteristic rubber odor
Solubility: Insoluble in water; stable colloidal dispersion
pH: Typically 6.5–7.5 (natural latex)
Viscosity: Variable depending on formulation

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification: May cause skin sensitization (allergic reactions) in sensitive individuals
Toxicity: Low toxicity; allergenic potential due to proteins in natural latex
Exposure Limits: No specific limits, but caution advised for sensitized individuals

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent coagulation
Container Type: Stored in sealed drums or tanks designed for colloidal suspensions
Shelf Life: 6-12 months under optimal conditions
Handling Precautions: Avoid prolonged skin contact; use protective gloves especially for those with latex allergy

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Complies with FDA and EU standards for medical-grade latex products
Subject to regulations on allergen labeling for consumer safety

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Natural latex is biodegradable; synthetic varies
Ecotoxicity: Generally low, but waste disposal should follow local environmental regulations
Bioaccumulation: Not applicable
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Gloves recommended; respiratory protection if aerosolized latex particles are present
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid aerosolizing latex particles to reduce allergy risk
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and protected from temperature extremes

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air if respiratory irritation occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical attention if allergic reaction develops
Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Ingestion: Seek medical advice; generally low toxicity

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Combustible material; produces dense smoke when burned
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers
Special Precautions: Wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, and other toxic fumes