4.3 - Synthetic Rubber
Definition, Source and Characteristics
- Synthetic rubber is an elastic synthetic polymer, or an elastomer.
- Most synthetic rubber is produced from petroleum by-products.
- Examples include neoprene, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and silicone rubber.
- Its useful characteristics include elasticity, hardness, heat insulation, and resistance to heat, oxidation and chemicals.
- Synthetic rubber can be mass-produced without dependence on weather or rubber-tree diseases, making it a major choice for manufacturing.
Types and Uses of Synthetic Rubber
| Synthetic rubber | Characteristics and uses |
|---|---|
| Neoprene (polychloroprene) | Resistant to high heat, oxidation and flame; conveyor belts, petrol hoses and gloves |
| Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) | Resistant to abrasion and high heat; tyres and shoe soles |
| Silicone rubber | Resistant to high temperature and inert; medical implants, cooking utensils, automotive components and sealants |
| Thiokol | Resistant to oil and solvents; sealants |
| Nitrile rubber | Resistant to oil and solvents; gloves |
Natural Rubber and Synthetic Rubber
| Natural rubber | Synthetic rubber |
|---|---|
| Biodegrades in a shorter time | Takes a very long time to decompose |
| Less resistant to heat and chemical solvents | Can be formulated for high resistance to heat, chemicals, oxidation, oil, solvents or abrasion |
| Supply depends on rubber trees, weather and disease | Can be mass-produced consistently |
The suitable rubber is selected according to the required properties. For example, SBR suits tyres and shoe soles because of its abrasion and heat resistance, while nitrile rubber suits gloves exposed to oil or solvents.
Rubber and the Environment
- Unsustainable use of rubber products causes environmental pollution.
- Synthetic rubber is difficult to dispose of because it decomposes very slowly.
- Large quantities of vehicle tyres require disposal.
- Rubber waste can be reduced by recycling or reusing rubber products; discarded tyres may also be used as fuel to generate electricity.
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