Synthetic rubber refers to an artificially made material that exhibits similar properties to natural rubber. It is a type of elastomer, which is a polymer characterized by its ability to return to its original shape after being stretched or deformed. Unlike natural rubber, which is derived from the latex of certain trees, synthetic rubber is primarily manufactured through a chemical process.
Synthetic rubber offers several advantages over natural rubber, including better resistance to environmental elements such as sunlight, ozone, and chemicals. It also maintains its elasticity over a wider range of temperatures, making it suitable for use in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.
The production of synthetic rubber involves the polymerization of different monomers, which are combined to create a rubber-like substance. Common monomers used in synthetic rubber production include styrene, butadiene, chloroprene, isoprene, and ethylene. These monomers are chemically treated and processed to create long chains of repeating units, resulting in the formation of a rubbery material.
Synthetic rubber can be formulated to possess specific characteristics, such as high tensile strength, excellent abrasion resistance, oil and solvent resistance, and low compression set. Depending on the intended application, different types of synthetic rubbers are manufactured, including styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polybutadiene rubber (BR), nitrile rubber (NBR), and neoprene rubber (CR).
Overall, synthetic rubber has become a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to natural rubber, providing a versatile material that is essential in various industries worldwide.
