CFT offers two different types of latex foams: Blended latex (contains both natural and SBR latex) and Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) full synthetic latex.
Blended Latex combines the attributes of natural and synthetic materials to create an open-celled elastomer that is compounded and processed to marry together the strengths of these amazing materials.
Let’s take a closer look at each:
Natural Rubber
Natural rubber is an open-cell organic elastomer that is derived from the milky sap (latex) harvested from rubber tree plants. The inherent properties are water-resistance, compression recovery, tensile strength, and elasticity.
Please note: Some individuals have been known to experience allergic reactions to the proteins contained in natural latex. Individuals known to be allergic to these plant antigens should avoid contact with products containing natural latex and instead choose full synthetic options such as non-blended SBR latex which does not contain these proteins.
Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) is also open-celled. This petroleum-based man-made monomer was brought about by the rubber shortage that occurred during World War II. A team of chemists from the United States reformulated German chemists Eduard Tschunkur and Walter Bocks patented “Buna S” synthetic rubber compound. This reformulation is the basis for what we know today as Styrene-Butadiene Rubber.
SBR is an economical general-purpose synthetic that is known to have improved resistance to oxygen, aging, and weathering over natural latex. Another benefit to SBR is that has good resilience over a wider temperature range.
Good physical strength and expanded-temperature properties along with the above-mentioned tensile strength, compression recovery, elasticity, improved aging and a wide assortment of applications have created a niche in the foam market for blended latex rubber.
Some common applications for our blended latex are Ink Pads, Fluid absorbing pads, cushion padding, Footwear Manufacturing, Medical Padding and Dressings, Dry cleaning pads.
Full synthetic SBR Latex Foams
Fully synthetic SBR latex foams have superior water resistance, heat resistance, abrasion resistance, low-temperature flexibility, and heat aging properties then blended latex. SBR also has good electrical insulation, alcohol resistance, oxygenated solvent resistance, and mild acid resistance. SBR can be successfully bonded to a wide range of materials.
Some Applications for Full Synthetic SBR latex are Mousepads, Footwear, Medical padding and dressings, Consumer Applications.
Our blended and fully synthetic latex foams have a typical service temperature range between –50° F and +225° F and are available in 33-150 RMA. Both will experience variations in color and softness as a result of the effects of aging.
Please refer to the capabilities chart for additional product and customization options.
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