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
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Latex
 Primary UsesÂ
- 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.
PRODUCT KEY FEATURES
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with FDA and EU standards for medical-grade latex products
- Subject to regulations on allergen labeling for consumer safety
- 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
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