Latex

Latex harvesting from a tree

Another photo showing latex harvesting

Clothing made of latex

Latex, also known as rubber, is a natural polymer. It is taken from the milky sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.

Today, much of the natural latex comes from Southeast Asia, such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Polymers made from artificial latex are called "synthetic rubber."

Properties

Elasticity
High mechanical resistance
Non-adherent
Electrical insulator
Chemical resistance
Insoluble in organic solvents

Vulcanization makes rubber useful in many products:

Tires
Shoe soles
Flexible tubes
Gloves
Raincoats
Bed mattresses

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