Among the myriad materials in modern industry, raw rubber holds a special place with its unique elasticity and durability. Raw rubber, which is natural rubber that has not been vulcanized, is extracted from the latex of rubber trees. This milky liquid quickly solidifies in air to form the raw rubber we know.
The main component of raw rubber is polyisoprene, a high molecular weight organic compound that imparts remarkable elasticity and flexibility to raw rubber. In nature, raw rubber serves as a self-protection mechanism for rubber trees; when the bark is damaged, the latex flows out and solidifies, forming a protective layer that prevents pathogen invasion.
In industrial applications, after undergoing vulcanization, the physical properties of raw rubber are significantly enhanced, making it a key material in the manufacture of tires, seals, shock absorbers, and more. The vulcanization process involves adding vulcanizing agents such as sulfur to create cross-links between rubber molecules, thereby increasing its strength, wear resistance, and chemical resistance.
Although synthetic rubber began mass production in the mid-20th century, natural raw rubber remains indispensable due to its unique properties. Especially in fields with high demands on material performance, such as aerospace and high-end automotive manufacturing, the application of natural raw rubber is still widespread.
However, the production of raw rubber also faces environmental and social challenges. The expansion of rubber plantations can sometimes lead to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. Therefore, sustainable rubber production and sourcing have become important issues in the industry.
In summary, as a natural material, raw rubber not only has wide applications in industry but is also a valuable resource bestowed by nature. With technological advancements and a pursuit of sustainability, the future of raw rubber will be more diverse and environmentally friendly.