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The Rubber Revolution: How Neoprene Changed Our Daily Life?
Neoprene, also known as neoprene, is a synthetic rubber made through the polymerization of chloroprene. This rubber excels in chemical stability and remains elastic across different temperature ranges. Neoprene is used in a wide range of commercial products, from laptop cases and orthopedic protective gear to electrical insulation and medical gloves.
Production process
Neoprene rubber is synthesized using free radical polymerization. Commercial production usually uses free radical emulsion polymerization with potassium persulfate as the initiator. Cross-linking agents such as metal oxides and thiourea cross-link individual polymer chains, improving the material's properties.
Historical background
The invention of neoprene can be traced back to April 17, 1930, created by DuPont scientists. The invention grew out of research by a chemistry professor at the time, and DuPont patented it and over the next few years developed a commercial production process. Early neoprene had limitations due to the unpleasant odor it produced, but with the advent of new processes, this problem was solved and the production cost of the product was reduced by half.
In its new marketing strategy, DuPont actively promoted the use of chloroprene and achieved sales revenue of more than US$300,000 in 1939, which is equivalent to US$6.6 million today.
Mechanical properties
The excellent tensile properties of chloroprene come from its regular molecular structure, which can deform and crystallize under tensile load. Resistance to high temperatures and chemicals makes it an ideal material for a variety of applications. However, neoprene deteriorates when exposed to acetone and high heat, due to enhanced cross-linking. In addition, the mechanical properties of neoprene can also be damaged when faced with the influence of environmental factors such as radiation and ultraviolet rays.
Application fields
General purpose
Neoprene is more durable than natural rubber and therefore can be used in many demanding applications such as seals, hoses and corrosion-resistant coatings. It also resists flames and is found in fire door seals and gloves for military use. Neoprene is also used in landfill linings due to its resistance to extreme environments.
Civil Engineering
In civil engineering, neoprene is used as a component of elastic bridge bearings that can withstand heavy loads and allow small horizontal movements.
Water activities
Neoprene is often used to make protective clothing for water activities, such as wetsuits and fishing suits, because of its excellent thermal insulation properties and buoyancy.
Household items
Neoprene has gained a lot of popularity lately, becoming a popular material for a variety of accessories used in everyday life, from laptop cases to mouse pads.
Music
In music, neoprene is used for hammerheads on electronic pianos, and is also used for practice pads for speakers and drums.
Hydroponic gardening
In hydroponic gardening, the flexibility and softness of neoprene make it an ideal material for housing plants, stabilizing them without damaging their stems.
COVID-19 Mask
During the COVID-19 outbreak, some experts have discovered that neoprene is an effective material for homemade masks. Some commercial mask manufacturers even claim that their products can achieve 99.9% filtration performance.
Other applications
Due to its chemical stability and durability, neoprene is also used to make raincoats or waterproof car seat covers. Designers such as Gareth Pugh and other fashion brands also use neoprene in fashion designs.
Notes
However, some people are allergic to neoprene, and some people may develop dermatitis due to thiourea residue left during production. The European rubber industry once conducted a study aimed at developing safe alternatives to reduce dependence on these chemicals.
Are these many uses really due to the excellent properties of neoprene? Or is there more potential hidden that we have yet to discover?
