NR - Natural rubber

Natural rubber, also known as NR, is the only non-synthetic rubber and has been in commercial use since the early 20th century. It is a naturally occurring elastomer extracted in the form of latex from the Hevea Brasiliensis tree grown on plantations. Hence, natural rubber has the advantage of being a renewable biodegradable material that makes it a more environmentally friendly alternative compared to synthetic polymers that are made from non-renewable raw materials.

Natural rubber is an elastomer known for its good fatigue resistance and is therefore an excellent choice for dynamically operating components where the target is to reduce vibrations and absorb shocks in mechanical and industrial applications. Its long durability and ability to maintain its properties even during prolonged continuous use make it a suitable material for rubber dampers, tires, rubber cloth, gaskets and rubber springs.

Natural rubber has low heat resistance and is sensitive to attack by ozone, which can be improved by adding antioxidants and antiozonants, for example.
NR - Natural rubber, NR material
Properties natural rubber
Properties

NR - Natural rubber / Isoprene rubber

Natural and isoprene rubber (NR / IR) has high elasticity and breaking strength as well as good abrasion and fatigue properties.
 
Ozone resistance is low but can be improved by adding, for example, antiozonants and protective waxes.
  • Max. temperature: 80°C
  • Min. temperature: -50°C
  • Tear strength: 4
  • compression set at -30 to +70°C: 4
  • Compression set at +70 to +150°C: 1
  • Attrition: 4-5
  • Oil and gasoline resistance: 1
  • Weather and ozone resistance: 1-2
  • Heat aging: 1-2
  • Adhesion to metal: 4-5
  • Adhesion to textile: 4-5
Rating:
5 - Excellent / 4 - Very good / 3 - Good / 2 - Less good / 1 - Poor

Rubber products in NR - Natural rubber

Below you will find some of all examples of products made from natural rubber:

Tires: Natural rubber is one of the most important components in tire manufacturing. Its elastic properties, low heat build-up and high resistance to wear make natural rubber the perfect choice for creating durable tires that can handle various road and weather conditions.

Industrial seals: Natural rubber is used for the manufacture of various types of seals such as o-rings, v-rings and gaskets. NR's good elastic properties help to prevent leakage and enable control of pressure in various applications.

Rubber cloths and rubber mats: Natural rubber is also used in the manufacture of rubber cloths and rubber mats. Often with the aim of reducing the risk of slipping and protecting surfaces against wear and liquids. These products are often used in industrial and commercial environments such as warehouses, restaurants and sports facilities.

Rubber band products: Elastic bands and rubber bands are products that are usually made from natural rubber. The products are used in a range of different applications, ranging from office materials to industrial environments where the elastic properties of natural rubber are used under various loads.

Rubber gloves: Natural rubber is used in the manufacture of, for example, disposable gloves and industrial protective gloves. NR's biocompatibility makes it a suitable material for protecting hands in medical and industrial environments.

Rubber springs: Rubber springs used in the automotive and transport industry often consist of natural rubber. The task of the rubber springs is to absorb and reduce vibrations and shocks, which improves comfort and safety during travel and transport.

These are just a few examples of all the products that are made from natural rubber. Natural rubber's elastic properties, wear resistance and resistance to external environmental influences make it the obvious choice of material for many products.
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