Latex is the sap of a plant derivative, extracted from the milky juice of several rubber-yielding plants, including the rubber tree.
Material Harvesting
The rubber tree takes 5-10 years to reach maturity when tapping can start
Sustainability
Rapidly Renewable
Cannot be remelted but it can be ground down to crumbs and used as filler
Decomposes in landfill
Physical Properties - vary based on the tree’s age, location, surrounding climate, and tapping method used
Good grip
Excellent resilience and tensile strength
Low-allergen
Poor chemical and UV properties
Antimicrobial
Forming Methods
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The base for the production of commercial natural rubber which is applied to a mould as liquid in dip forming or cast into solid pieces in a mould, or foamed.
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Footwear brand Terra Plana
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Latex from the Jetluong tree is used in chewing gum.
References
Lefteri, C. (2014). Materials for design. Laurence King