Why Is It Important to Remove Coagulant from Rubber Film by Leaching ?

Manufacturer: We are manufacturing toy balloons but without leaching. Why is it important to remove the coagulant from the rubber film by leaching ?

John Woon (Senior Latex Consultant): Leaching is important not only for the removal of coagulant salt such as calcium nitrate but also all other hydrophilic chemicals such as naturally present proteins, soaps, KOH, etc. If there is no leaching or the leaching process is not effective, the rubber film would tend to discolour when exposed to warm air, gas fumes and UV light. The physical properties would also be negatively affected due to poor particle-to-particle integration during drying.There is also a tendency for mold and fungus growth and bad odour.

I strongly advise you to install a leaching process in your Production as this would also improve the brilliance of the colour and gloss of your inflated balloons.