Proper Preservation and Storage of Latex
Abstract During the war years, when the maintenance of a stockpile of natural rubber latex was of critical importance, great opportunities were offered to establish new and improved techniques for its preservation and storage. Eight precautions are essential if latex is to be kept in good condition during long-term storage: (1) it should be kept free from bacteria; (2) it should have a sufficiently high pH level, which depends on the type of latex ; (3) it should be maintained at uniform total solids ; (4) its temperature should be uniform and properly regulated; (5) it should undergo minimum exposure to oxygen; (6) storage vessels should have smooth side walls and should be properly sterilized; (7) it should not be exposed to either indirect or direct light, and (8) it should have a low KOH number. Every one of these items must be considered carefully if the latex is to be maintained at highest quality. Each one will be discussed separately.