Plasticization of Rubber in the Form of Latex
Abstract When in the form of latex, rubber can be oxidized by thiols under hot conditions. The reaction apparently proceeds by the same mechanism as that characteristic in the action of peptizing agents on rubber during mastication. The results obtained confirm the hypothesis that the thiol is transformed quantitatively into the corresponding disulfide, with resultant oxidation of the rubbert. This transformation is a function of the pH value, and the best results are obtained when the pH value is around 4 and in the absence of NH4 ions (which have an inhibitory effect). Latex preparations of this type can be utilized for studying the chemical reactions of rubber in emulsion and for the preparation of rubber derivatives which are more soluble than those prepared from rubber latex which has not been degraded. In addition, such latex preparations are excellent adhesives which, in contrast to already known products (latex treated with hydrogen peroxide or other peroxides), give a sticky film by simple drying at room temperature. In this way heating can be avoided in cases where it has harmful effects and where the use of an oven is inconvenient. Finally, this type of latex is more adaptable to certain direct applications, both because of the superior adhesive properties of the rubber and because, with a relatively plastic coagulum, mastication is easier.