Crystallization and Gel Content of Polychloroprene

Manufacturer: We are using polychloroprene latex (e.g. Neoprene) for making latex dipped products including gloves. We have been advised to consider the "crystallinity" and "gel content" of the polymer in order to select the right grades for the right jobs. Can you tell us how these two properties can affect the properties of my finished products?

John Woon (Senior Latex Consultant): Generally, as you increase the level of "crystallinity" or "crystallization rate", you get the following effects:

1) Cohesion strength, modulus and hardness would increase
2) Elongation, hot oil swell, resistance to permanent set would drop

As you increase the level of "gel content", you get the following results:

1) Cohesive strength, modulus, resilience, resistance to permanent set would increase
2) Elongation, dry tack and hot oil swell would decrease

You should use this information as a guide in conjunction with the curative recipe design to get the optimized final physical properties required for your products.