Natural and synthetic rubber, both versatile materials, hold significant positions in the industry. Their diverse applications stem from the distinct physical and chemical properties they possess. The mention of natural rubber evokes images of rubber trees, while synthetic rubbers bring to mind traditional manufacturing and oil processing.
In this article, we will look at the difference between natural and synthetic rubber, their industrial applications, and the pros and cons of both rubbers.
What is natural rubber?
Natural rubber is produced by tapping trees that are found naturally. Generally, natural rubber is sourced from these trees, such as resilience or the Para rubber tree. Originally, this was a Brazilian plant, but it is now cultivated in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, India, and Vietnam.
Latex is gathered by tapping the tree in a thick, milky sap which is then processed. Excess water is removed from latex and then air dried to get natural rubber. This natural rubber is vulcanized for better stability. Rubber trees that are six years or older can be tapped annually for around 25 years to get latex. The most common use of natural rubber is in the automotive and aerospace industry.
Uses for natural rubber
Natural rubber is used as a raw material in a number of products, such as tires for cars and aircraft, surgical gloves, rubber bands, medical devices, clothes, motor mounts, pacifiers, children’s toys, and balloons.
What is synthetic rubber?
Synthetic rubber is a man-made rubber produced by the polymerization of monomers into polymers. There are two ways to polymerize: solution polymerization and emulsion polymerization.
We can make different types of synthetic rubbers by varying the monomers and then polymerizing them to make synthetic rubber with different applications. All types of synthetic rubbers are byproducts of oil.
Here are some types of synthetic rubber. Each has different applications and uses in the industry
- EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
- Butyl rubber
- NBR (Nitrile Rubber)
- Neoprene rubber
- Polyisoprene rubber
- Silicone rubber
Uses for synthetic rubber
The largest consumer of synthetic rubber is the automotive industry. The aerospace industry also uses synthetic rubbers for aircraft and fuel systems. Synthetic rubbers have applications in other industries, such as healthcare, construction, and everyday life.
- Auto industry: seals, tires, o rings, gaskets, hoses, belts, and other vehicle products.
- Construction industry: seals, flooring, and roofings
- Aerospace industry: Seals, gaskets, O-rings, vibration isolators.
- Healthcare industry: Protective equipment and medical components
- Everyday application: Shoes, sporting goods, kitchen tools
Comparison of properties of natural vs synthetic rubber
Property Natural rubber Synthetic rubber
Temperature resistance -40 to 80 -70 to 180
Tensile strength (N/mm2) 25 30
Abrasion Good Excellent
Resistant to oil and greases Unsuitable Excellent
Resistance to wear and tear Very good Excellent
Price of natural vs synthetic rubber
The price of natural and synthetic rubber constantly fluctuates based on supply and demand. Natural rubber prices depend on a number of factors, such as weather, availability of seedlings, cost of labor, and profitability of rubber plants compared to other crops.
Also, rubber plants take 6-8 years to produce latex, which is then processed to get natural rubber. Natural rubber is used in the production of products that require strength, flexibility, heat resistance, and resistance to tearing.
On the other hand, the price of synthetic rubber depends on crude oil. Synthetic rubber is required in the production of products that require abrasion resistance, heat and aging resistance, elasticity, and resistance to grease and oil. So you can’t predict which rubber is more economical than the other. Their prices keep changing.
The prices of both rubber, natural and synthetic, also fluctuate due to demand-side factors. For example, if there is a boom in the auto industry, more manufacturers would be interested in purchasing rubber. So, the prices would be higher in that period.
In many products, natural and synthetic rubber can be combined in the product formula. Their ratio can be changed easily to make the products economical.
Environmental impact of natural vs synthetic rubber
As natural rubber comes from trees, manufacturers are encouraged to grow more trees for greater profits. So, growing more rubber trees is a double-sum game for the grower and the environment. So trees are not cut because when they start producing latex, they continue to do so for the next 25-30 years.
Synthetic rubber is typically produced using petroleum. Crude oil and petroleum are nonrenewable energy resources. The end products made of synthetic rubber are also not biodegradable, while the ones made from natural rubbers are.
Natural vs synthetic rubber: which one lasts longer
Natural and synthetic rubber can withstand different types of degrading factors. Natural rubber degrades more easily from environmental factors than synthetic rubber.
Heat and cold cycles and ultraviolet rays can speed the aging process of natural rubber. If latex is chlorinated, the natural rubber becomes more stable and durable. Synthetic rubber is more prone to deterioration when it is exposed to tearing and abrasion.
Advantages of Natural and Synthetic rubber
Natural and synthetic rubbers are distinct materials, and each offers unique advantages in the rubber industry. Here, we’ve outlined the top advantages of both natural and synthetic rubber, empowering you with knowledge about their specific properties.
Advantages of natural rubber
- High tensile strength
- Tearing and abrasion resistance
- Compression resistance
- Damp vibrations characteristics
- Good adhesion
Advantages of synthetic rubber
- Temperature resistance
- Chemical resistance
- Resistant to chemical damage
- Good electric insulator
- Heat, ozone, and weathering resistance
Choosing between natural vs synthetic rubber or a unique middle-ground
When choosing between natural and synthetic rubber, or even a combination of both, it’s crucial to consider your specific application needs. Both types can serve as excellent electric insulators and are resistant to chemicals. The decision ultimately rests on which one best suits your unique requirements.
Synthetic rubber is better in terms of temperature resistance, aging resistance, and grease and oil resistance. Synthetic rubber is also cheaper than natural rubber; for certain applications, using synthetic rubber is necessary due to its properties.
On the other hand, natural rubber has properties such as strength, flexibility, and heat resistance and is used to manufacture latex products. Ultimately, it depends on the application to decide which type of rubber to choose.
Natural, synthetic rubber or both?
In summary, both natural and synthetic rubber play crucial roles across various industries, each bringing unique advantages to the table. Natural rubber, derived from the sap of rubber trees, offers exceptional flexibility, strength, and durability. It is ideal for applications requiring high tensile strength and abrasion resistance, such as tires and medical devices. Its environmental benefits are notable, as it is biodegradable and promotes sustainable forestry practices.
Conversely, synthetic rubber, created through the polymerization of petroleum-based monomers, excels in temperature resistance, chemical resistance, and durability under extreme conditions. It is especially valuable in applications needing resistance to oil, grease, and wear, such as in automotive seals and construction materials. While its production relies on nonrenewable resources and results in non-biodegradable products, its versatility and cost-effectiveness make it indispensable in many industrial applications.
Ultimately, the choice between natural and synthetic rubber depends on specific requirements such as performance characteristics, environmental impact, and cost considerations. By understanding the distinct properties and applications of each type, manufacturers and consumers can make informed decisions to meet their needs effectively.
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