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Vulcanization

Vulcanization is a chemical process performed on rubber to strengthen it by causing polymer molecules to interlink with other polymer molecules. The vulcanized rubber is harder, more durable, and more resistant to chemicals and other damage. The surface becomes smoother and less likely to stick to metal or plastic.

Uncured natural rubber deteriorates quickly because of unstable proteins and oxidation. Rubber being vulcanized is usually exposed to sulfur or peroxide for curing; the sulfur atoms are released, and grow "bridges" from rubber molecule to rubber molecule, creating a tight network throughout the rubber structure. The resulting chemical reaction is irreversible, and the compounds created are thermoset – that is, they do not melt on heating, unlike other thermoplastics.

Vulcanized rubber was invented by the Mesoamericans, but the first commercial use was Charles Goodyear, who found a commercial means to vulcanize rubber in 1839. He probably did not know what he had invented; he did not patent it until 1843.

Today's major problem with vulcanization is the irreversibility of the process. Scientists working on the problem (critical to getting rid of waste rubber and recycling) have met with varied success.

Web Resources On Vulcanization

Chemistry, Technology & Conservation
Vulcanization of Rubber

Book Resources On Vulcanization

Vulcanization of Elastomers: Principles and Practice of Vulcanization of Commercial Rubbers by Alliger & Sjothun
Vulcanization and vulcanizing agents by Werner Hofmann

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