Studies on the optimization of latex processing parameters on mechanical properties of biodegradable natural rubber latex gloves
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Date
2016-06
Authors
Kuwn Moei Ting
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Abstract
Studies on biodegradable Natural Rubber (NR) latex glove are mean to overcome the excessive disposal of gloves in the world. Sago starch was introduced as bio-material filler in NR latex glove to facilitate the biodegradation process. In turn, the mechanical properties of biodegradable NR glove are reduced due to the inability of rubber particles to form hydrogen bonding as well as sulphide linkage. This also due to the restriction in formation of primary bonding within poly-isoprene and amylase molecules. In order to obtain biodegradable NR latex glove with higher mechanical properties and meets the ASTM D3578 standard for examination gloves, studies on the dwell time, curing time and NR latex compound temperature of biodegradable NR latex glove processing was carried out. Mechanical properties of biodegradable NR latex gloves are studied with Instron Tensile Machine (Model 3366). Biodegradable NR latex glove processing is carried out with the aid of lab scale batch semi-automatic dipping machine and the 10phr of sago starch is used in the NR latex compound. Based on the results, the dwell time at 6 seconds, curing time at 18 minutes and latex temperature at 35 ⁰C is capable to produce biodegradable NR latex glove. The biodegrable NR latex glove produced achieved 20.47MPa of tensile strength, 1280.67% of elongation at break and 73.50N/mm tear strength which meets the ASTM D3578 standard. The biodegradation test after week 4 in soil burial proved the degradation of biodegradable NR latex gloves.