Rubber active agents are an integral part of many of our everyday products. From medical gloves to tires and rubber gloves to gaskets, they play an import role in the manufacturing process. But what actually are active rubber agents and how do they help us create better, safer, and more durable products? Let’s take a look and explore the science behind rubber active agents.
What are Rubber Active Agents?
Rubber active agents are materials with a range of properties that enable them to improve the performance of rubber products. They are often added during the process of making rubber products to modify the molecular structure of the rubber and to change or enhance some of its desired properties. The range of rubber active agents includes:
- Processing aids, which help in mechanically moulding rubber articles, such as plasticizers and lubricants.
- Reinforcing agents, which boost the strength and rigidity of the rubber articles, such as inorganic fillers.
- Stabilizers, which protect the rubber article from heat and oxidation, such as antioxidants.
- Surface modifiers, which change the surface characteristics of the rubber article, such as wax emulsions.
How do they work?
Rubber active agents work to modify a material’s properties, such as its strength and durability, by “activating” certain chemical processes in the rubber. The active agent modifies the rubber’s molecular structure, creating a new and better product with superior characteristics.
These active agents can also be used during the “curing” process, where rubber articles are heated up and hardened, to yield stronger and more durable components. For example, antioxidants are added to the rubber during the curing process and they work to stabilize and protect the rubber from thermal oxidation, thereby preventing discoloration and degradation.
Benefits of Using Rubber Active Agents
Rubber active agents help to improve the quality and performance of a wide range of rubber products, from car tires to medical gloves. Some advantages of these agents include:
- Improvement of the rubber’s tensile strength and volume
- Prevention of cracking and discoloration
- Increased fatigue resistance and wear resistance
- Improvement of heat and weather resistance
- Increased durability and lifespan of the product
Conclusion
Rubber active agents are an important part of the manufacturing process and they play a key role in improving the performance of many different products. Thanks to their range of properties and benefits, they are invaluable in the production of rubber articles, from car tires to medical gloves. This makes them a “mystery” worth unraveling.
