🌿 Understanding Natural Latex: From Centrifuging to Compounding — What Matters Most

Natural latex, extracted from the Hevea brasiliensis tree, is the backbone of many medical and industrial glove products. But the journey from tree sap to a high-quality glove involves a series of scientifically monitored processes. One of the most crucial steps? Centrifugation — a process that determines the very foundation of glove quality.

🔄 What is Centrifuged Natural Latex?

Centrifuged latex is the purified version of field latex. Through high-speed rotation, the heavier non-rubber contents (like proteins, resins, and phospholipids) are separated, increasing the Total Solid Content (TSC) and yielding High Ammonia (HA) or Low Ammonia (LA) latex.

🧪 Key Parameters Before Compounding

Before entering the compounding stage, it’s essential to test and adjust several latex parameters to ensure consistency, strength, and safety in the final glove product.

1. Total Solid Content (TSC)

2. Dry Rubber Content (DRC)

3. Mechanical Stability Time (MST)

4. Volatile Fatty Acid Number (VFA No.)

5. pH

6. KOH Number

7. Haemoglobin & Protein Content (Residual)

⏳ The Role of Latex Aging

Aged latex can severely affect product performance. Over time, microbial activity, oxidation, and protein degradation alter the chemical structure of the latex.

• Aged latex may show:

To manage this:

• Store latex below 25°C

• Use biocides

• Monitor pH and VFA regularly

🧬 Protein & Phospholipid Hydrolysis: What You Must Know

Proteins and phospholipids are natural non-rubber constituents of latex. While they aid in latex stability, their hydrolysis over time poses risks:

• Protein Hydrolysis:

• Phospholipid Hydrolysis:

Monitoring the KOH number, MST, and zeta potential helps in predicting these degradations.

🧤 Final Thoughts

Every drop of natural latex carries potential — but only with the right processing and vigilant monitoring can it be transformed into high-quality gloves that protect lives.

By understanding the science behind centrifuging and compounding, and managing aging, protein, and phospholipid hydrolysis, we ensure product safety, performance, and reliability.

🔬 Let's combine nature and science for a safer tomorrow.