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.

Description

Latex

 Primary Uses 

  1. 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.
  1. Rubber Products Manufacturing

  • Production of balloons, condoms, elastic bands, and rubber threads.
  • Used in foam rubber products such as mattresses and pillows.
  1. 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.
  1. Textiles and Footwear

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

 

Secondary Uses

  1. Arts and Crafts
  • Used for making molds, masks, and special effects in theater and film due to its flexible film formation.
  1. Construction Industry

  • Incorporated in concrete additives and sealants to improve water resistance and flexibility.
  1. Household Products

  • Found in household gloves, sponges, and elastic bands.
PRODUCT KEY 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
  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
  • Complies with FDA and EU standards for medical-grade latex products
  • Subject to regulations on allergen labeling for consumer safety

 

  1. 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
  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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