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In 1839, Charles Goodyear accidentally dropped rubber mixed with sulfur onto a hot stove. The rubber did not stay sticky and weak. Heat changed it into tougher, more stable rubber. This process, called vulcanization, later helped make rubber useful for tires and many other products.
Things That Weren't Invented/Discovered By White People
Vulcanization: First invented by the Olmecs of what is now Mexico, vulcanization is a method of processing rubber. Charles Goodyear (of Goodyear tires) typically claims this invention, but he didn't reinvent it until the 19th century.
Snowshoes: Snowshoes were invented and used by the Native American and First Nation groups in North America.
Compass: The Olmecs certainly understood magnetization, and some evidence is beginning to suggest they invented the compass a thousand years before even China did.
The Story of Vulcanized Rubber: Goodyear's Remarkable Discovery
The story and science behind one of the most important developments in polymer science. How is vulcanized rubber made? Why is it important? In what applications is it commonly used?
A better way to make plastics out of sulfur
Scientists at the University of Liverpool have discovered a new process to make polymers out of sulfur which could provide a way of making plastic that is less harmful to the environment.
Sulfur is an abundant chemical element and can be found as a mineral deposit across the world. It is also a waste product from the refining of crude oil and gas in the petrochemicals industry, which generates huge stockpiles of sulfur outside refineries.
Whilst being identified as an interesting possible alternative to carbon in the manufacture of polymers, sulfur cannot form a stable polymer on its own but, as revealed in a process called 'inverse vulcanization' it must be reacted with organic crosslinker molecules to make it stable. This process can require high temperatures, long reaction times, and produce harmful by-products.
However, researchers from the University of Liverpool's Stephenson Institute of Renewable Energy, working in the field of materials chemistry have made a potentially game changing discovery.
Read more.
Explore how natural rubber vulcanization transform natural rubber into durable, versatile materials ideal for various industrial application
Learn about natural rubber vulcanization by GB Gummi for improved elasticity, strength, durability & heat resistance in industrial applications.
Complete Guide to Rubber Compounding: Natural Rubber Vulcanization, SBR, EPDM & Silicone Compounds by GB Gummi
Rubber plays a crucial role in countless industries—from automotive and construction to healthcare and consumer goods. However, raw rubber alone cannot meet the demanding performance requirements of modern applications. This is where rubber compounding comes into play.
At GB Gummi, the focus lies in creating high-performance rubber compounds tailored to specific industrial needs. Whether it’s natural rubber vulcanization or advanced synthetic blends like SBR, EPDM, and silicone rubber compounds, each material offers unique properties that make it suitable for different environments.
This guide explores the science, benefits, and applications of these essential rubber compounds in a way that’s easy to understand and practical for real-world use.
Natural Rubber Vulcanization: The Foundation of Durability
Natural rubber, derived from latex, is known for its excellent elasticity and resilience. However, in its raw form, it is too soft and unstable for most industrial uses.
The breakthrough comes with vulcanization, a chemical process that transforms natural rubber into a stronger, more durable material.
What is Vulcanization?
Vulcanization involves heating natural rubber with sulfur and other additives. This process creates cross-links between polymer chains, improving strength, elasticity, and resistance to heat and wear.
Benefits of Natural Rubber Vulcanization:
Enhanced tensile strength
Improved elasticity and flexibility
Resistance to abrasion and tearing
Better thermal stability
Applications:
Vulcanized natural rubber is widely used in:
Tyres and tubes
Conveyor belts
Shock absorbers
Industrial seals
At GB Gummi, natural rubber compounds are engineered to maintain consistency and performance even under extreme operating conditions.
SBR Compound: Cost-Effective and Versatile
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) is one of the most widely used synthetic rubbers in the world. It was originally developed as an alternative to natural rubber and has since become a staple in industrial manufacturing.
Key Characteristics of SBR Compound:
Good abrasion resistance
Excellent aging stability
Cost-effective alternative to natural rubber
Moderate resistance to heat and chemicals
Why Choose SBR?
SBR compounds are ideal when you need a balance between performance and cost. While they may not match natural rubber in elasticity, they excel in durability and wear resistance.
Common Applications:
Automotive tyres
Rubber flooring
Conveyor belts
Footwear soles
GB Gummi formulates SBR compounds with precise ingredient control, ensuring uniform quality and performance across batches.
EPDM Compound: Superior Weather and Chemical Resistance
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) rubber is known for its exceptional resistance to environmental factors. It is the go-to choice for applications exposed to sunlight, ozone, water, and extreme temperatures.
Properties of EPDM Rubber Compound:
Excellent weather and UV resistance
Outstanding resistance to ozone and oxidation
High flexibility in low temperatures
Good electrical insulation properties
Why EPDM Stands Out:
Unlike many other rubbers, EPDM does not degrade easily when exposed to harsh outdoor conditions. This makes it highly reliable for long-term applications.
Applications:
Automotive weather seals
Roofing membranes
Cable insulation
Gaskets and O-rings
At GB Gummi, EPDM rubber compounds are designed for durability and longevity, ensuring minimal maintenance and maximum performance.
EPDM Rubber Compound: Tailored for Industrial Excellence
While EPDM is already a versatile material, compounding enhances its properties even further. By adding fillers, curing agents, and stabilizers, manufacturers can tailor EPDM to meet specific industrial requirements.
Custom Features of EPDM Compounds:
Enhanced tensile strength
Improved compression set resistance
Custom hardness levels
Increased chemical resistance
Industrial Advantages:
EPDM compounds are especially useful in industries that demand reliability over long periods, such as:
Construction
Automotive
Electrical systems
Water management systems
GB Gummi specializes in customizing EPDM rubber compounds based on client specifications, ensuring optimal performance for every application.
Silicone Rubber Compound: High-Performance Under Extreme Conditions
Silicone rubber compounds are in a league of their own when it comes to temperature resistance and flexibility. They are widely used in industries where standard rubber materials fail.
Key Properties of Silicone Rubber:
Excellent heat resistance (up to 250°C or more)
Outstanding flexibility at low temperatures
Non-toxic and biocompatible
Superior resistance to UV and ozone
Why Silicone Rubber is Unique:
Silicone rubber maintains its properties across a wide temperature range, making it ideal for both extreme heat and freezing conditions.
Applications:
Medical devices
Food-grade seals and tubing
Electrical insulation
Automotive components
At GB Gummi, silicone rubber compounds are developed with precision to meet stringent quality and safety standards.
Why GB Gummi is a Trusted Name in Rubber Compounding
In a competitive industry, quality and consistency are everything. GB Gummi stands out by offering:
Advanced compounding technology
Strict quality control processes
Custom formulation capabilities
Industry-specific solutions
Reliable supply chain
The company’s expertise ensures that every rubber compound delivers optimal performance, whether it’s for automotive, industrial, or specialized applications.
Future Trends in Rubber Compounding
The rubber industry continues to evolve with advancements in materials science and sustainability. Some key trends include:
Development of eco-friendly rubber compounds
Improved recycling techniques
High-performance synthetic blends
Smart materials with enhanced durability
GB Gummi is committed to staying ahead of these trends, continuously innovating to meet the needs of modern industries.
Conclusion
Rubber compounding is both a science and an art. From natural rubber vulcanization to advanced silicone formulations, each material offers unique advantages that cater to specific industrial requirements.
Understanding the differences between SBR, EPDM, and silicone rubber compounds can help businesses make informed decisions and improve product performance.
With its expertise and commitment to quality, GB Gummi continues to be a reliable partner in delivering high-performance rubber solutions tailored to diverse applications.
