ZnO Reducing Transparency of Latex Products

Manufacturer:
We have been advised that our products lack transparency due to the presence of ZnO in our latex compound formulation. What can we do as we need some degree of transparency of our products?

John Woon (Senior Latex Consultant):


Among the curatives, ZnO gives the highest opacity to the rubber film and hence the least transparency.

The problem can be overcome by taking the following actions:

1) Reduce the Level of ZnO

2) Use ZnO-Active

3) Replace ZnO with “Transparent” ZnO

4) Use Nano-Sized ZnO

5) Totally Remove ZnO

Please let me know if you want a full report on how to achieve this including other factors and remedial actions to obtain maximum transparency of your products.