Effect of acid treatment on extractable protein content, crosslink density and tensile properties of natural rubber latex films

The effect of acid treatment on the extractable protein content and tensile properties of natural rubber latex films was studied. The main aim was to introduce an alternative method to tackle the protein allergy in natural rubber latex products. Natural rubber latex was treated with various amounts of 7.0% hydrochloric acid to get pH values in the range of 2.0-9.0 at 70 °C. Results showed that the extractable protein content of the films reduced with reducing pH. The crosslink density, tensile strength and the elongation at break of acid treated films were slightly lower than that of the untreated films. The moduli at 100% and 300% elongation of the films were not affected by acid treatment. Acid treatment was found effective in reducing extractable protein content in natural rubber latex films.