Worchester, Massachusetts – Vystar Corp. and the Indian Rubber Manufacturers Research Association are collaborating on a variety of activities regarding a new phase of development of deproteinised latex.
The Worchester-based company said a memorandum of understanding between the two includes research, innovation, testing and technology transfer covering the midstream and downstream rubber industry sectors.
"Within the natural rubber latex industry, deproteinised natural rubber (DPNR), both latex and solid, is known for its superior static and dynamic properties that improve end product performance," Rajkumar, director of IRMRA, said in a statement.
IRMRA's goal is to team with Vystar to develop viscoelastic DPNR variants having properties for expanding its applications in specific new arenas such as green tires, biodegradable and "other unique bioelastoplast product lines that desire a new approach," according to Rajkumar.
Collaboration could include "testing and standard development in relation to tire and non-tire and latex areas," training to exchange research knowledge, and product development that could include engineering rubber products.
The two sides will work on cost reduction, material substitution, specialty rubber products and niche applications. They also identified applications in non-allergenic gloves and tires as well as sustainability certification.
The agreement will allow IRMRA and Vystar to explore markets in non-traditional rubber markets.
"Manufacturers across many industries are working continuously to identify eco-friendly sustainable and biodegradable materials to replace non-renewable, non-biodegradable materials, such as synthetic rubber and plastics," Vystar CEO Steve Rotman said.
"Many are also looking for low or no nitrosamine and ammonia formulations of latex,” he added.
The collaboration with IRMRA is expected to lead to the development and/or adaptation of new Vytex formulations, dry rubbers and bioelastoplasts to meet manufacturers’ needs, with the added benefits of healthier manufacturing environments and sustainable end products with enhanced properties, Rotman said.
Vytex is described by Vystar as "a rubber hydrocarbon material with the proteins and non-rubber components that cause allergies removed to create an ultra-pure latex and dry rubber with a more compact molecular network of greater durability and flexibility that is virtually odour free with a reduced risk of developing or triggering contact allergies."
