Natural rubber
Natural Rubber is an elastomer harvested from the latex sap of rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis). It is a highly elastic, resilient, and durable polymer used globally in numerous industries. Natural Rubber is prized for its excellent tensile strength, flexibility, abrasion resistance, and ability to withstand deformation. It is widely utilized in manufacturing tires, industrial goods, footwear, and medical devices. The product is available in various forms such as sheets, blocks, crepes, and latex concentrate.
Primary UsesÂ
- Automotive Industry
- Manufacturing tires for vehicles including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and aircraft.
- Production of seals, gaskets, belts, hoses, and vibration dampers.
- Footwear Industry
- Used in soles, insoles, and other shoe components for flexibility and durability.
- Industrial Applications
- Production of conveyor belts, rubber mats, rollers, and industrial gloves.
- Used in shock absorbers, vibration mounts, and other heavy-duty rubber goods.
- Medical and Healthcare
- Used in surgical gloves, catheters, tubing, and various medical devices requiring elasticity and biocompatibility.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Adhesives and Coatings
- Used in natural rubber-based adhesives and latex paints for flexibility and adhesion.
- Sports Goods
- Used in the manufacture of balls, grips, and other sports equipment requiring elastic properties.
- Consumer Goods
- Used in balloons, rubber bands, erasers, and household items.
- Textile Industry
- Incorporated into elastic threads and fabrics for stretchability.
- Electrical Industry
Used for insulation and protective coatings in cables and electrical components.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polyisoprene (natural cis-1,4-polyisoprene)
- Common/Trade Name: Natural Rubber
- CAS Number: 9006-04-6
- HS Code: 4001.10.00
- Synonyms: Latex rubber, Hevea rubber
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid sheets, crepe, or latex liquid
- Color & Odor: Pale yellow to brown; characteristic natural rubber odor
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents such as benzene and toluene
- Molecular Weight: High molecular weight polymer
- Elasticity: High elasticity and tensile strength
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not hazardous under normal handling
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; possible allergenic reactions to latex proteins
- Exposure Limits: Avoid inhalation of powdered forms or latex dust
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas away from direct sunlight and ozone sources
- Container Type: Wrapped sheets, bales, or drums for latex
- Shelf Life: Typically 1–2 years if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid exposure to heat, sunlight, and ozone to prevent degradation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with ASTM and ISO standards for natural rubber products
- Compliant with medical-grade specifications where applicable
- Meets REACH and other chemical safety regulations
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable under natural environmental conditions
- Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact when disposed of properly
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Allergenicity: Latex proteins may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves recommended when handling latex products; dust masks if powdered forms present
- Handling Guidelines: Minimize exposure to latex dust; work in ventilated areas
- Storage Measures: Protect from ozone, sunlight, and high temperatures
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air if respiratory irritation occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; discontinue use if allergic reaction develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Not applicable; seek medical advice if large amounts swallowed
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Combustible; emits toxic fumes when burned
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ extinguishers
- Special Precautions: Use protective equipment to avoid inhalation of smoke
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, and other toxic gases