Which process is used to improve the mechanical properties and stability of rubber?

JAMB Chemistry 2023 57 views

Which process is used to improve the mechanical properties and stability of rubber?

  1. Polymerization
  2. Vulcanization ✓
  3. Distillation
  4. Coagulation

Explanation

Vulcanization is the process of heating rubber with sulfur to create cross-links between polymer chains. These cross-links make rubber stronger, more elastic, and more resistant to heat.

Natural rubber is soft and sticky, but vulcanized rubber is tough and durable. Car tires, shoe soles, and rubber bands are all made from vulcanized rubber.

Charles Goodyear discovered this process in 1839. Vulcanization transformed rubber from a curiosity into one of the most important industrial materials in the modern world.

pastquestions.ng