Degree of Vulcanization of Rubber Latex by Capillary Viscometer

摘要

The degree of vulcanization of latex compound was determined by capillary viscometer with controlled temperature to study effect of time and temperature on vulcanization process. The standard equilibrium swelling test was also conducted to assess the degree of vulcanization. A latex compound for medical glove was investigated. The latex viscosity was observed to increase over time at above room temperature condition. On the other hand, the viscosity fluctuated around mean value at room temperature. This is partly consistent with the swell ratio measurement which complete vulcanization was observed at curing temperature of 60 °C.