Latex Research Articles

Hemp fibre reinforced natural rubber bio-macromolecule based biodegradable engineered leather

Out of the diverse industrial applications of hemp fibre, for the first time we report the development of a leather alternative (flexible composite) material by integrating hemp fibre, as a bio-reinforcement and natural rubber (latex) macromolecules, as a matrix. For developing such unique product, primarily, hemp fibre was extracted from the Canabinus sativa L., i.e., industrial hemp plant. The structure and physico-mechanical properties of extracted hemp fibre used for making leather alternative were thoroughly studied. Characterization analysis has underscored that the fibre has crystallinity of around 78 % and composed of mainly cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Physical properties of fibre denote that hemp is longer, finer, stronger, higher elongation%, than widely available ligno-cellulosic jute fibre. Natural rubber (latex) biomolecule-based formulation was used as matrices, allowing the hemp fibre content in the flexible composite approximately 38–40 %. Developed flexible composite was then hot-pressed and coloured for mimicking with natural leather. Natural fibre-reinforced-leather with areal density of 250–550 g/m2 were fabricated and were characterized in detail in terms of physical, structural, mechanical, and chemical properties. Tensile and tear strength of the developed leather material lies in between 8 and 9 N/mm2 and 90–110 N, respectively. Moreover, different integral parts of natural rubber based engineered leather were examined by Fourier-Transform-Infrared-Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), surface roughness, chemical composition analysis and scanning-electron-microscopy (SEM) techniques to understand the mechanical of interaction among the different component and to suggest the possible chemical reaction among the different macro-molecules, responsible towards good stability of the natural fibre-reinforced-leather structure.

Recommendations for the management of latex allergy in pediatrics

Latex allergy, or natural rubber latex allergy (NRLA), is a global health concern, even among the pediatric population, with symptoms varying in severity from mild to potentially life-threatening. Latex is derived from the Hevea Brasiliensis tree, producing twelve million tons annually for use in various everyday and medical products. Despite efforts to mitigate NRLA, its prevalence remains high, especially in at- risk groups such as children with spina bifida. Clinical manifestations include immediate and delayed symptoms, even anaphylactic reactions. Diagnosis involves a detailed medical history and specific tests. Prevention focuses on avoiding exposure, especially in medical and educational settings. Treatment, including immunotherapy, exhibits variable efficacy. NRLA has a strong negative impact on children's quality of life. The objective of this publication is to provide updated information and practical tools for the pediatrician's and allergist's practice.

Developing Hydration Maps of Polymer Latex Film Formation Using Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy.

The dynamics of the drying process of polymer latexes after casting as a wet film onto a substrate are important to track as they influence the physical and mechanical properties and performance of the dried polymer films. Current methods used to follow this drying process include gravimetric analysis, coupled with advanced techniques like GARField-NMR or optical coherence tomography. The latter two methods provide height and spatial information in the z-direction, normal to the substrate, and occasionally in the xz- or yz-planes. Terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz-TDS) is a welcome addition as it provides both the structural and spectroscopic information in the parallel xy-plane, filling the geometric gap. Herein, we utilize THz-TDS to study the drying and film formation process of various polymer latexes with a broad range of glass transition temperatures. We showcase the applicability of this technique in obtaining 2D parallel hydration maps of the drying dispersions, in the form of droplets, using latex-dependent calibration lines. Our findings display known phenomena arising from the drying of the colloidal dispersions.

Cinnamon oil value addition in natural rubber latex‐organic peroxide vulcanization system

AbstractNatural rubber is a sustainable material which plays a vital role in a wide variety of applications. Value additions to this natural material enhance its horizons of utilization and encompass multiple advantages. This endeavor focuses on elevating the properties of the natural rubber latex (NRL)‐dicumyl peroxide vulcanization system with the utilization of cinnamon oil (CIN‐OIL). CIN‐OIL was characterized by GCMS, FTIR, and UV–Vis. The FTIR and TGA have confirmed the incorporation of the CIN‐OIL into the NRL. Swelling studies confirmed that the addition of CIN‐OIL has not interfered with the process of peroxy crosslinking. The adhesive peel test and facial tissue test clearly concluded that CIN‐OIL has reduced the initial tackiness of the material which is apparent in peroxy NR vulcanizates. Tear strength and modulus values were increased with CIN‐OIL due to the formation of physical crosslinking. Weathering tests confirmed the higher degradability of the CIN‐OIL‐added NRL samples. Furthermore, films were tested positive for antibacterial activity against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. Along with the enhanced degradability, antibacterial activity, reduced initial tackiness, and enhanced mechanical properties, CIN‐OIL in NRL has enriched its qualities.

Innovative Lead Removal: Natural Rubber Latex Foam/Coconut Shell-Based Activated Carbon Composite on Flexible Substrates

Innovative Lead Removal: Natural Rubber Latex Foam/Coconut Shell-Based Activated Carbon Composite on Flexible Substrates

Publisher Correction: Properties of vulcanised concentrated skim natural rubber latex dipped film

Publisher Correction: Properties of vulcanised concentrated skim natural rubber latex dipped film

β-Tricalcium phosphate incorporated natural rubber latex membranes for calvarial bone defects: Physicochemical, in vitro and in vivo assessment

Natural rubber latex membrane (NRL) is a biocompatible macromolecule that stimulates angiogenesis and promotes bone repair. Similarly, β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) is an osteoconductive and osteoinductive bioceramic widely used as a bone substitute. Here, we investigated the combined use of these biomaterials in the guided bone regeneration process for calvarial defects in rats. Physicochemical characterization was performed to evaluate the interaction between β-TCP and NRL. Membrane toxicity was assessed using MC3T3 osteoblasts culture and in vivo assays with Caenorhabditis elegans. Lastly, NRL membranes, NRL incorporated with β-TCP membranes (NRL-β-TCP), and a periosteum-only (control group) were tested on rodents. MC3T3 cells adhered to membranes, preserving their morphology and intercellular connections. NRL-β-TCP membranes demonstrated no toxicity in larvae, which maintained their sinusoidal wave shape. Tests results on rodents revealed statistical difference between the groups at 60 days post-operation. NRL-β-TCP (56.1 ± 14.0 %) had an average 1.48-fold higher than the control group (38.0 ± 9.1 %), with tissue production and bone remodeling. Our qualitative histological analyses revealed that membranes significantly accelerated bone formation without any signs of inflammatory reactions. We conclude that NRL-β-TCP has potential to be used for flat bone regeneration, with osteoconductive properties, being a cheap, biocompatible, and effective occlusive barrier.

Innovative early age mechanical properties of 3D printable mortar enhanced with SBR latex and kaolin

As the global population has continued to grow, the costs and environmental issues associated with traditional construction materials like cement and river sand have become increasingly problematic. This study explores the innovative enhancement of early-age mechanical properties of 3D-printable mortar through the incorporation of Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) latex and kaolin. Various sands (Lawrencepur, Chenab, and Ravi) were tested at 120 min for compressive stress, direct shear strength, Young’s Modulus, and Shear Modulus. Lawrencepur Sand exhibited the highest compressive stress (206.75 kPa) and shear strength (74.60 kPa), followed by Chenab Sand and Ravi Sand. Young’s Modulus values were highest in Lawrencepur Sand (7.93 MPa), indicating superior stiffness, while Shear Modulus was highest in Chenab Sand (3.79 MPa). Ravi Sand, despite lower mechanical strengths, was found optimal for printable mortar due to its fine particle size and desirable texture. The incorporation of SBR latex and kaolin resulted in reduced maximum deflection and enhanced load-bearing capacity over time, with Lawrencepur Sand containing 99.64% sand particles and minimal silt bearing the ultimate load effectively. This study highlights the potential of SBR latex and kaolin in improving the early-age mechanical properties and suitability of sands for 3D-printable mortar, providing a balance between mechanical performance and printability.

Development of waterborne epoxy-based resin incorporated with modified natural rubber latex for coating application

Water-based coating has gained much attention globally due to environmental issues. This work aims to develop a waterborne epoxy coating incorporated with modified natural rubber (NR) latex for improved performance. For this purpose, the NR latex was modified into three types of low molecular weight epoxidized natural rubber (LENR) latex. The waterborne epoxy resin was prepared by simply mixing the epoxy resin with an amine curing agent in water and various LENR latex contents (10 to 50 wt%). The waterborne epoxy/LENR blend was coated on a tin substrate and the cured coating demonstrated better adhesion and bending properties than the neat epoxy. Phase morphological properties displayed a rough surface with a heterogeneous surface structure of the dispersed rubber and epoxy matrix. Two glass transition temperatures were observed, corresponding to the rubber modifier and the epoxy matrix. The mechanical properties of the thermosetting epoxy/LENR blends were assessed, revealing a maximum increment in elongation ability by approximately 370% for adding 50 wt% LENR, compared to the neat epoxy. These results hold the potential avenue for utilizing NR-based material in the waterborne epoxy-based resin for coating applications. Furthermore, it contributes to the NR, a renewable and eco-friendly material, in the coating technology, embracing a sustainable future.

Enhancement of mechanical properties of natural rubber latex sheets by incorporating allyl-modified microcrystalline cellulose (AMCC)

Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was chemically modified with allyl bromide through the hydroxyl groups of cellulose to obtain allyl-modified microcrystalline cellulose (AMCC). To enhance the curing and mechanical properties of natural rubber latex, this AMCC was then compounded with a natural rubber latex formulation to produce rubber sheets. Unmodified MCC was also compounded and prepared into rubber sheets, which served as a reference. The formation of AMCC was confirmed using Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTIR). Furthermore, the thermal behavior of AMCC was examined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and the degree of crystallinity before and after modification was evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results of the rubber sheets showed that overall, maximum torque (MH), degree of crosslinking density, vulcanization rate (cure rate index), and tensile strength increased in AMCC-loaded rubber compared to MCC-loaded sheets. On the other hand, optimum cure time (t90) and elongation at break were lower in the AMCC-loaded rubber than in the MCC-loaded sheets. In overall, this method outlines a successful incorporation of modified cellulose into natural rubber-based products to obtain enhanced mechanical properties.

Natural Rubber Latex Modified High Performance Concrete

Natural Rubber Latex Modified High Performance Concrete

Molecular Hydrogen Line Identifications in Solar Flares Observed by IRIS: Lower Atmospheric Structure from Radiometric Analysis

A rich spectrum of molecular hydrogen (H2) emission lines is seen in sensitive observations from the far-ultraviolet (FUV) channels of the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) during flare activity in solar active region NOAA Active Region 11861. Based on this observation, we have determined 37 new line identifications by comparing synthetic spectra produced using 1D modeling of H2 fluorescence. To avoid misidentification of the H2 lines, we have also compiled a complete list of atomic line identifications for the IRIS FUV bandpasses from previous work. We carry out analysis of the spatially resolved H2 emission that occurs during the flares and find the following: (1) in spatially resolved observations the H2 line ratios may show optically thick line formation, contrary to previous results; (2) comparison of the spatial distribution of H2 Doppler velocities with those measured from other species reveals that H2 remote sensing probes an intermediate depth in the atmosphere between the photosphere and chromosphere, consistent with expectations from modeling; (3) the relationship between H2 line intensity and the observed intensity of its exciter is related to the atmospheric stratification; however, (4) H2 fluorescence can sometimes occur in response to radiation from distant sources many megameters away across the solar surface.

SOFIA/EXES Observations of Warm H2 at High Spectral Resolution. II. IC 443C, NGC 2071, and 3C 391

Using the EXES instrument on SOFIA, we have obtained velocity-resolved spectra of several pure rotational lines of H2 toward shocked molecular gas within three Galactic sources: the supernova remnant (SNR) IC 443 (clump C), a protostellar outflow in the intermediate-mass star-forming region NGC 2071, and the SNR 3C 391. These observations had the goal of searching for expected velocity shifts between ortho- and para-H2 transitions emitted by C-type shocks. In contrast in our previous similar study of HH7, the result of our search was negative: no velocity shifts were reliably detected. Several possible explanations for the absence of such shifts are discussed: these include a preshock ortho-to-para ratio that is already close to the high-temperature equilibrium value of 3 (in the case of IC 443C), the more complex shock structures evident in all these sources, and the larger projected aperture sizes relative to those in the observations of HH7.

Effects of BET Surface Area and Silica Hydrophobicity on Natural Rubber Latex Foam Using the Dunlop Process.

To reinforce natural rubber latex foam, fumed silica and precipitated silica are introduced into latex foam prepared using the Dunlop process as fillers. Four types of silica, including Aerosil 200 (hydrophilic fumed silica), Reolosil DM30, Aerosil R972 (hydrophobic fumed silica), and Sipernat 22S (precipitated silica), are investigated. The latex foam with added silica presents better mechanical and physical properties compared with the non-silica foam. The hydrophobic nature of the fumed silica has better dispersion in natural rubber compared to hydrophilic silica. The specific surface area of silica particles (BET) also significantly influences the properties of the latex foam, with larger specific surface areas resulting in better dispersity in the rubber matrix. It was observed that exceeding 2 phr led to difficulties in the foaming process (bulking). Furthermore, higher loading of silica also affected the rubber foam, resulting in an increased shrinkage percentage, hardness, compression set, and crosslink density. The crosslink density increased from 11.0 ± 0.2 mol/cm3 for non-silica rubber to 11.6 ± 0.6 mol/cm3 for Reolosil DM30. Reolosil DM30 also had the highest hardness, with a hardness value of 52.0 ± 2.1 IRHD, compared to 45.0 ± 1.3 IRHD for non-silica foam rubber and 48 ± 2.4 IRHD for hydrophilic fumed silica Aerosil 200. Hydrophobic fumed silica also had the highest ability to return to its original shape, with a recovery percentage of 88.0% ± 3.5% compared to the other fumed silica. Overall, hydrophobic fumed silica had better results than hydrophilic silica in both fumed and precipitated silica.

Pulling Back the Curtain on Shocks and Star Formation in NGC 1266 with Gemini-NIFS

We present Gemini near-infrared integral field spectrograph K-band observations of the central 400 pc of NGC 1266, a nearby (D ≈ 30 Mpc) post-starburst galaxy with a powerful multiphase outflow and a shocked interstellar medium. We detect seven H2 rovibrational emission lines excited thermally to T ∼ 2000 K, and weak Brγ emission, consistent with a fast continuous shock (or C-shock). With these bright H2 lines, we observe the spatial structure of the shock with an unambiguous tracer for the first time. The Brγ emission is concentrated in the central ≲100 pc, indicating that any remaining star formation in NGC 1266 is in the nucleus, while the surrounding cold molecular gas has little ongoing star formation. Though it is unclear what fraction of this Brγ emission is from star formation or the active galactic nuclei (AGN), assuming it is entirely due to star formation we measure an instantaneous star formation rate of 0.7 M ⊙ yr−1, though the star formation rate may be significantly higher in the presence of additional extinction. NGC 1266 provides a unique laboratory to study the complex interactions between AGN, outflows, shocks, and star formation, all of which are necessary to unravel the evolution of the post-starburst phase.

Reinforcing Nitrogen Nutrition Through Partial Substitution with Organic Nitrogen Enhances the Properties of Natural Rubber

The partial substitution of chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer is a crucial practice for enhancing crop production and quality, although its impact on natural rubber has rarely been explored. In this study, a two-year field experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of different nitrogen application rates and varying proportions of organic nitrogen substitution on dry rubber yield, nitrogen nutrition, and natural rubber properties. Regarding nitrogen application, the control treatment received no nitrogen amendment, while the low-nitrogen treatment was amended with 138 g·tree−1·year−1 of nitrogen. The medium-nitrogen treatment received 276 g·tree−1·year−1 of nitrogen, and the high-nitrogen treatment received 552 g·tree−1·year−1 of nitrogen. In addition, the low-organic-nitrogen substitution treatment and medium-organic-nitrogen substitution treatment were amended with 276 g·tree−1·year−1 of nitrogen each. The results demonstrated that the 50% organic nitrogen substitution treatment resulted in the highest dry rubber yield across all sampling periods, ranging from 46.43 to 94.65 g·tree−1. Additionally, this treatment exhibited superior soil total nitrogen (1067.69 mg·kg−1), available nitrogen (84.06 mg·kg−1), and nitrogen content in roots (1.08%), leaves (3.25%), fresh rubber latex (0.27%), and raw natural rubber (0.44%) compared with other treatments. In terms of the physical properties of natural rubber, the 50% organic nitrogen substitution treatment resulted in advantages in the weight-average molecular weight (1.57 × 106 g·mol−1), number-average molecular weight (0.36 × 106 g·mol−1), plasticity retention index (97.35%), Wallace plasticity (40.25), and Mooney viscosity (81.40). For mechanical properties, natural rubber from the substitution treatment exhibited higher tensile strength (19.84 MPa), greater elongation at break (834.75%), and increased tear strength (31.07 N·mm−1). Overall, the substitution of 50% chemical nitrogen fertilizer with organic nitrogen fertilizer improved nitrogen nutrition in rubber trees by introducing organic nitrogen input, resulting in remarkable enhancements in natural rubber properties. Therefore, the incorporation of organic fertilizer as a substitution for 50% of chemical fertilizer is demonstrated as an effective strategy for improving both the yield and properties of natural rubber.

Identification of the HbZAR1 Gene and Its Potential Role as a Minor Gene in Response to Powdery Mildew and Anthracnose of Hevea brasiliensis

Powdery mildew and anthracnose are the main diseases of rubber trees. In recent years, there have been large outbreaks in the rubber-planting areas of Asia, seriously affecting the yield and quality of rubber latex. ZAR1 is a conserved and distinctive coiled-coil nucleotide-binding leucine-rich (CNL) repeat in the plant kingdom, playing a crucial role in disease-resistance processes. To elucidate the function of the HbZAR1 gene in rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis), three candidate HbZAR1 genes were identified using bioinformatics methods and comprehensively analyzed. The results indicate that the HbZAR1 protein is conserved in different plant species. Examination of cis-regulatory element sequences of HbZAR1genes reveals that the HbZAR1 gene promoter exhibits a remarkable enrichment of stress, light, and hormone elements. An expression analysis shows that the expression levels of the three HbZAR1 genes are highest in the bark and lowest in latex. Three HbZAR1 genes can respond to both rubber tree Erysiphe quercicola and Colletotrichum siamense infection; especially, HbZAR1.1 and HbZAR1.2 show significant upregulation in expression levels during the early stages of infection. These findings suggest that the three HbZAR1 genes may be involved in rubber tree susceptibility to E. quercicola and C. siamense through different immune mechanisms. Subcellular localization results indicate that the HbZAR1 genes are expressed in the nucleus and plasma membrane. This study also shows that the three HbZAR1 genes and activated mutant HbZAR1.1D481V do not induce stable ROS production and cell death, suggesting possible gene degradation, functional redundancy, or acting as minor genes in disease resistance. This research provides valuable insights for further studying the function of HbZAR1 genes in rubber trees and the mechanisms of immune molecules.

Diffusion Behavior of Organic Solvents in Graphene Oxide/Nano Silica Hybrid Natural Rubber Latex Nanocomposite: Experimental and Theoretical Approach

AbstractThis study explores the impact of a graphene oxide (GO)/nano silica (NS) hybrid (GO/NS) filler on the diffusion characteristics of natural rubber (NR) composites when exposed to toluene, xylene, and hexane solvents. The lowest solvent uptake is observed for NR GO/NS 3 (3 phr), which is attributed to forming a robust filler network within the composite. The calculation of crosslink density using the Flory‐Rehner equation reveals significantly higher values for NR GO/NS 3, indicating good crosslinking density in the presence of the hybrid filler. Furthermore, molecular mass between crosslinks (Mc) is calculated, demonstrating a favorable fit with the Affine model. The investigation extends to theoretical modeling, where the Korsemeyer–Peppas and Peppas–Sahlin models are employed to predict solvent uptake behavior. Strikingly, the experimental values exhibit a strong alignment with the Peppas–Sahlin model. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the diffusion behavior of graphene oxide/nano silica (GO/NS) hybrid‐reinforced natural rubber latex in organic solvents, highlighting potential applications in areas such as solvent‐resistant coatings, barrier materials for chemical storage, and enhanced performance in protective gloves and seals used in harsh chemical environments.

Effects of oil palm trunk biochar as filler on physical and mechanical properties of deproteinised and epoxidised natural rubber latex foam

Effects of oil palm trunk biochar as filler on physical and mechanical properties of deproteinised and epoxidised natural rubber latex foam

Second‐degree burns treatment: Preclinical in vivo approaches using natural latex rubber containing Aloe vera extract

AbstractNatural rubber latex (NRL) obtained from Hevea brasiliensis is emerging as a viable and economical alternative for biomedical treatments, particularly for dermal injuries. Its effectiveness is enhanced when combined with bioactive molecules, such as those found in Aloe vera (AV), known for their healing properties and are commonly used in low‐cost wound healing therapies. Thus, this study evaluated the physicochemical and biological properties of NRL incorporated with 25%, 35%, and 50% AV, both in vitro and in vivo. FTIR analyses revealed only physical interactions between NRL and AV, facilitating their release, as evidenced by the release profile. In vitro assays indicated improved biocompatibility in samples composed of 25% and 35% AV, while complete cell death occurred at 50% AV. Histological evaluations of second‐degree burn models in rats showed greater re‐epithelialization of the epidermis with 35% AV after 14 days of treatment. However, 50% AV highlighted the importance of avoiding overdosing to prevent tissue necrosis. Despite the differences observed between in vitro and in vivo results, NRL membranes containing AV are a promising approach for future clinical trials in skin wounds treatment, offering an effective and affordable solutions for skin regeneration in clinical settings.