Before the advent of synthetic materials, natural rubber played a crucial role in various industries due to its unique properties of elasticity and water resistance. Charles Goodyear’s discovery of the vulcanization process in 1839 transformed natural rubber into a durable and versatile material, expanding its applications significantly. The phrase “once human best way to frm rubber” encapsulates the historical significance of natural rubber as a foundational material before the development of synthetic alternatives.
Natural rubber is obtained from the milky sap, known as latex, of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis). The latex is collected through a process called tapping, where incisions are made on the bark of the tree to allow the latex to flow out. The collected latex is then processed to remove impurities and coagulate it into solid rubber. This natural rubber possesses exceptional elasticity, strength, and resistance to wear and tear, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including tires, hoses, belts, and medical devices.
