Preparation of Synthetic Rubber
Various synthetic rubbers are made using the polymerization process, such as neoprene by addition polymerization, Buna-S, and Buna-N through co-polymerization.
- Neoprene: Neoprene, commonly known as polychloroprene, is a homopolymer made from chloroprene polymerized by free radicals. It has a strong oil resistance and is used to make conveyor belts, hoses, and gaskets, among other things.
- Buna-S: Buna – S is formed by the copolymerization of 1,3-butadiene and styrene. It has a high tensile strength and can be used as a natural rubber alternative. It’s utilized to create car tires, footwear components, cable insulators, and other things.
- Buna-N: Buna – N is a copolymer made by polymerizing 1,3-butadiene with acrylonitrile in the presence of a peroxide catalyst. Oils, petrol, and some organic solvents won’t harm it. They’re typically utilized to make tank linings, oil seals, and other such things.
Rubber
Rubber is a natural product made by plants. Throughout the history of humanity and the rise of human civilizations, rubber has played a significant role. Today, we obtain 99% of the natural rubber we use from a tree known as Hevea brasiliensis. Hence, rubber is an elastic material produced from the emission of some tropical plants (natural rubber) or extracted from petroleum and natural gas (synthetic rubber). Rubber is an elastic, flexible, and tough substance therefore, it can be used to manufacture tires for vehicles, aircraft, bicycles, etc.