Rubber may seem like an ordinary material at first glance, yet it plays an astonishingly large part in the world we know today. Its applications vary from creating dependable footballs and bouncy shoes to reinforcing bridges, safeguarding us from daily hazards and more.
What Makes Rubber Special?
Rubber is unique in the fact that it is made from both natural and synthetic materials. It is composed of a high-molecular-weight material composed of several hundred-thousand-atom molecules that are linked together like strands of a rope. Its versatility in application, flexibility, and elasticity make it a multi-use agent in many industries.
Uses of Rubber
Rubber has been used since ancient times in many ways:
- Footwear – Shoes and boots feature rubber in the form of rubber soles to provide grip, reduce fatigue and protect the feet from water and harsh terrain.
- Insulation – Rubber helps to trap heat by acting as a heat barrier around electrical wires or piping. It is also used to insulate the exterior of ice boxes and refrigerators.
- Sports Equipment – The durability, tension, elasticity, and grip of rubber makes it an ideal material for sports equipment such as soccer balls, tennis balls, and golf clubs.
- Automotive Parts – Belts in engines, gaskets, brakes, and power assistances all rely on the elasticity, tension, and durability of rubber.
Benefits of Rubber
Aside from its many uses, there are some key benefits to using rubber:
- Durability – Rubber is resilient to heat, cold, chemicals, and abrasion. This makes it the ideal material for products like hoses and gaskets, and in extreme cases such as spacewalks.
- Cost Efficiency – Rubber is fairly economical making it a popular choice for large and small scale projects alike.
- Weather-proof – Rubber is resistant to water, oil, and ultraviolet light making it a great external material for roofs, gutters, and more.
The Future of Rubber
While we may not realize it, rubber is at the forefront of many technological revolutions. It is already being used in the development of medical devices and is being explored extensively in making autonomous vehicles safer. Who knows, maybe soon rubber will even be used in creating a device to revolutionize travel and communication.
Final Thoughts
Rubber may not appear to be the most exciting of materials, but its uses are virtually endless. Its versatility, flexibility, and elasticity make it a dependable and active agent. From shoes to spaceships, rubber has proven its mettle in all kinds of environments and will likely continue to do so for many years to come.
