The orgin of rubber

Natural rubber originates from latex produced by the rubber tree. Latex is a soft, sticky and unstable material. In the 15^th century it is Columbus himself who notices this exceptional material. In 1770 the English chemist, mr. Priestley , discovers that pencil marks can be removed by using “solid latex”. Thus the name “rubber” is a fact, derived from the English verb “to rub out”.

The truly exceptional qualities of rubber are discovered in 1839. In that year Charles Goodyear invents the vulcanization process: by adding sulphur, rubber transforms into a solid and elastic material.

The advent of the pneumatic tyre causes a huge demand of rubber. New rubber plantations are spreading, but still the demand of rubber cannot be met. The development of synthetic  rubber becomes an absolute necessity. The production of synthetic rubber really commences during the Second World War and finally natural rubber is driven from the throne.

Because of its almost infinite possibilities, rubber has become an integral part of our society. Nowadays, there are about 25 different kinds of synthetic rubber. Van Kempen knows exactly which kind of rubber will be most suitable for your product.

Would you like to learn more? Please contact one of our rubber specialists.