Unlocking the potential of natural rubber: A review of rubber particle sizes and their impact on properties
Issued Date
2024-08-20
Resource Type
ISSN
00323861
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85199268067
Journal Title
Polymer
Volume
308
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Polymer Vol.308 (2024)
Suggested Citation
Payungwong N., Wu J., Sakdapipanich J. Unlocking the potential of natural rubber: A review of rubber particle sizes and their impact on properties. Polymer Vol.308 (2024). doi:10.1016/j.polymer.2024.127419 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/100050
Title
Unlocking the potential of natural rubber: A review of rubber particle sizes and their impact on properties
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Author's Affiliation
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Abstract
Natural Rubber (NR), known for its superior properties compared to synthetic variants, owes its performance to its complex microstructure. This review explores the critical role of rubber particle size distribution, specifically large rubber particles (LRP) and small rubber particles (SRP), in defining NR's unique characteristics. LRP, primarily found in concentrated NR latex (CNR), contrasts with SRP, which is typically sourced from CNR production waste (skim latex). The review begins with an analysis of NR's microstructure, followed by a detailed examination of rubber particles (RPs). It assesses LRP and SRP, focusing on particle size distribution, molecular weight variance, and non-rubber components (NRCs). The review highlights how rubber particle size significantly influences the physical, curing, and mechanical properties of NR. By providing insights into LRP and SRP characteristics, this study aims to drive advancements in rubber product development, potentially revolutionizing the natural rubber industry.