Affiliations 

  • 1 Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Taiz University, 6803 Taiz, Yemen; Department of Engineering Physics, Istanbul Medeniyet University, 34700 Istanbul, Türkiye. Electronic address: rawdahwhba@taiz.edu.ye
  • 2 Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
  • 3 Department of Physics, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Taiz University, 6803 Taiz, Yemen
  • 4 Istanbul Technical University, Physics Department, Bebek, Istanbul, Türkiye
  • 5 Physics Department, Inonu University, Malatya, Türkiye
  • 6 Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia; Department of Physics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Airlangga University (Campus C), Mulyorejo Road, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia. Electronic address: azizan@ukm.edu.my
Int J Biol Macromol, 2024 Sep;276(Pt 1):133796.
PMID: 39004255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.133796

Abstract

Natural rubber (NR) and its derivatives play indispensable roles in various industries due to their unique properties and versatile applications. However, the widespread utilization of NR faces intrinsic challenges such as limited mechanical strength, poor resistance to heat and organic solvent, poor electrical conductivity, and low compatibility with other materials, prompting researchers to explore enhancing its performance. Modified NRs (MNRs) like cyclization, deproteinization, chlorination, epoxidation, or grafting NR demonstrated a few enhanced merits compared to NR. However, various strategies, such as blending, vulcanization, crosslinking, grafting, plasticization, reinforcement, and nanostructuring, overcame most drawbacks. This review comprehensively examines these challenges and delves into the modification strategies employed to enhance the properties and expand the applications of NR and its derivatives. Furthermore, the review explores future visions for the NR industry, emphasizing integrating advanced modification techniques, adopting sustainable practices, and promoting circular economy principles. By elucidating the inherent challenges, outlining effective modification strategies, and envisioning future trajectories, this review provides valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to navigate and contribute to the sustainable development of the NR sector.

* Title and MeSH Headings from MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.