As specialists in the crafting of non-metallic parts,one ofourmostfrequentlyusedmaterialswework withisrubber.This material has several useful properties which make it useful for our customers in avariety ofindustries. But there are both natural and synthetic rubber materials available;so,whatarethe differencesbetweensynthetic rubber vs natural rubber? Let’s talk about it:
Synthetic Rubber vs Natural Rubber: The Similarities
Before we discuss the differences between natural and synthetic rubber, let’s talk about how they are similar. Both natural and synthetic rubber have high tear resistance, good low-temperature flexibility, and high tensile strength. Tensile strength being defined as a materials resistance to breaking while under tension. Now, let’s look at the differences:
Let’s start with natural rubber. As you likely already know, natural rubber is harvested from the latex from rubber trees using a processsimilar tocollecting sap from a maple tree to make syrup. Now, between the two, natural rubber’s tensile strength is higher than synthetic rubber, boasts higher tear resistance, and has a less potent odor than synthetic rubber. Natural rubber also resists chipping, cutting, and tearing better than its artificial counterpart. One other key characteristic is that it’s tacky, which allows it to adhere well to other materials such as steel cords. Because of the foregoing properties, natural rubber is often used for tire production.
Synthetic Rubber
Now, let’stake a lookat the qualities of synthetic rubber. The first synthetic rubber was developed in 1909 by Fritz Hofmann and his team at Bayer labs in Elberfeld, Germany, but it came to its true prevalence when Waldo Semon at BF Goodrich developed a cheaper method for developing rubber in the 1940s, which would be instrumental for the US during World War II and the war effort.
Synthetic rubber is made from a variety of petroleum-based monomers. There are a few prevalent types of synthetics, including styrene-butadiene rubber (the most prevalent), polyisoprene, chloroprene, and nitrile rubber.Generally speaking, syntheticrubber has greater durability and longevity than natural rubber due in no small part to the materials resistance to damage from chemicals, extreme temperature, ozone, and sunlight. Other key properties include superior flexibility at low temperatures and suitability as an electrical insulator. Synthetic rubber is also easier and cheaper to produce, and the array of variations make it ideal for use in specific situations with unique requirements.
As with many other manufacturing projects, the materials you use matter! Natural rubber and the various types of synthetic rubber bring different properties, so knowing what the final application of the rubber will be crucial: it will dictate what the optimal material will be. So, if you need help deciding which type of rubber or any other material you need for your project or application, the Breiner teamhas the knowledge of and the experience with hundreds of types of materials. From start to finish, we will help you choose the right material for your specific needs, whether you need one part or hundreds, Breiner is on your side!
Generally speaking, synthetic rubber has greater durability and longevity than natural rubber due in no small part to the materials resistance to damage from chemicals, extreme temperature, ozone, and sunlight.
Natural rubber is better than the synthetic kind because it's eco-friendly. It has a milder odor, it's more flexible, and it has a very high resistance when stretched out with a lot of force.
Generally, synthetic rubber is better than natural rubber in terms of temperature resistance, ageing resistance and resistance to abrasion. Synthetic rubber also tends to be cheaper to produce.
A few scientists in England, France and Germany stuck with it for a while and made some progress individually, but not without a few problems, and a few more arguments. The biggest problem with making synthetic rubber was that no one knew where to start.
EPDM rubber is the choice for the environmentally conscious. Not only is it the healthiest option for the planet, but it's also the choice for the financially savvy.
The environmental impact from the production and use of synthetic rubber derives primarily from energy consumption, use of fossil raw materials, emissions to air and water, and waste products.
Compared to natural rubber, the advantages of synthetic rubber include its excellent abrasion resistance and ability to adhere to metals, making it a great option for rubber gaskets, seals and other products. Synthetic rubber also excels in extreme temperatures due to good heat resistance and heat-aging qualities.
Synthetic rubber is resistant to solvents, oxygen, oils, and certain other chemicals. This makes it age better than its alternatives. Also, synthetic rubber doesn't lose its flexibility when exposed to wide range of temperature.
One of the biggest limitations of natural rubber is its poor resistance to hydrocarbons, fats, oils, and greases. Contact with these substances can cause swelling, softening, or complete dissolution of the rubber part resulting in partial or complete failure.
Synthetic Rubber Market Snapshot (2023 to 2033) The global synthetic rubber market was estimated to reach a valuation of USD 43.52 Billion in the year 2022. With a steady CAGR of 5.1% from 2023 to 2033, this market is expected to reach USD 45.74 Billion by 2023 and USD 75.22 Billion by 2033.
China is known to be the highest producer of synthetic rubber. Synthetic rubber is a polymer made from petrol, coal and natural gas as leading raw materials and is polymerized with olefins and dienes as monomers.
4% of the rubber used by American companies was synthetic. Production of one type of synthetic rubber increased in the U.S. during the war from 3,721 tons in 1942 to 756,042 tons by 1945. By 1950, the use of synthetic rubber outpaced natural rubber. Today more than 70% of rubber production utilizes synthetic rubber.
The recommended rubber shelf life may vary based on polymer type and compound formulation. The actual life could vary dramatically based on storage conditions.
Compared to natural rubber, the advantages of synthetic rubber include its excellent abrasion resistance and ability to adhere to metals, making it a great option for rubber gaskets, seals and other products. Synthetic rubber also excels in extreme temperatures due to good heat resistance and heat-aging qualities.
Waste and Pollution. Non-Biodegradable Nature: One of the most concerning environmental aspects of synthetic rubber is its non-biodegradable nature. Once disposed of, synthetic rubber products take an incredibly long time to decompose, leading to the accumulation of waste in landfills and natural environments.
Rubber is durable, and more eco-friendly than plastic. It lasts longer, and stands up better against heat and cold than plastics. It's safer for your products, too, with no estrogen-mimicking toxins like BPA to worry about.
Rubber recycling refers to processing irreparably damaged or worn-down (natural or synthetic) rubber products for new use to prevent rubber waste from ending up in a landfill.
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