Development of a methodology applicable for the production of cationic latex from natural rubber on a commercial scale

• Grant number: 04/02898-5
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: November 01, 2004
• End date: January 31, 2009
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Ana Carolina Dall'Antonia
• Grantee: Ana Carolina Dall'Antonia
• Company: Prolatex Comércio de Latex Ltda
• City: Américo de Campos

Abstract

Natural rubber latex obtained from the tapping of trees is anionic by nature, being traditionally used in this form for the production of gloves, condoms, adhesives and foams, among other materials. The stability of latex is short, due to the action of microorganisms which reduce the pH, destabilizing it and promoting its spontaneous coagulation. Therefore, the addition of preservatives such as ammonia is necessary to increase its stability and permit its use in the form of aqueous dispersion. Although the production of latex has been increasing in the country, there is still a great dependency on imports. This project aims to develop a new methodology which makes it possible to obtain cationic latex from natural rubber on a commercial scale. The preparation of this new raw material entails the collection, the addition of anticoagulant agents and diluted acid, to give a latex with a pH of around 4.5. The entire process of adding anticoagulants and acids should take place in the farm where it is produced. Different anticoagulants will be researched, in different proportions. Subsequently, the treated latex will be centrifuged to determine the pH, the level of solids, particle size, zeta potential, colloidal stability, viscosity and mechanical properties such as resistance to traction, stretching and elastic return. These results will enable the evaluation of quality and the viability of producing the product on a commercial scale. (AU)