Synthetic Rubber

4.3

Synthetic Rubber

Introduction to Synthetic Rubber

Most synthetic rubber is produced as by-products of petroleum.
Examples of synthetic rubber is neoprene, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and silicone rubber.

Definition of Synthetic Rubber

A synthetic polymer that is elastic in nature or elastomer polymer.

Uses of Synthetic Rubber

With the unique characteristics found in synthetic rubber, various items can be manufactured.
Having the advantage of mass production capacity, while not being reliant on the weather or diseases like rubber trees do, makes synthetic rubber the main choice for manufacturing industries.
The use of synthetic rubber is as shown below:

Synthetic Rubber	Characteristics	Uses
Neoprene (polychloroprene)	High heat resistance, oxidation resistance and flame resistance.	Conveyor belts, petrol rubber hoses and gloves.
Styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR)	Abrasion resistance and high heat resistance.	Tyres and shoe soles.
Silicone rubber	High temperature resistance and inert.	Medical implants, cooking utensils, automotive components and sealants.
Thiokol	Oil and solvent resistance.	Sealants.
Nitrile rubber	Oil and solvent resistance.	Gloves.

Use of Rubber and Environment

Unsustainable use of rubber materials will lead to environmental pollution.
Synthetic rubber, particularly, takes a very long time to decompose and makes disposal difficult.
Vehicle tyres are among the products of synthetic rubber that need to be disposed of in large quantities.
Natural rubber, on the other hand, takes a short time to decompose biologically.
Nevertheless, the use of natural rubber is limited due to the natural properties of natural rubber that is less resistant to heat and chemical solvents.