Natural Rubber Latex - Problem with Dilution with Water

Manufacturer: We are latex gloves manufacturer. We always encounter latex destabilisatiion whenever we dilute our latex compound with water before dipping. This has resulted in high loss and poor processing. Can you explain why?

John Woon (Senior Latex Consultant): One possible reason is the fact that when water is added to the latex compound, the concentration of latex stabiliser present in the water phase is reduced accordingly. Therefore you should add a small amount of the stabliser in the water before using it.

Also, you must prevent "pH shock" to the latex by adjusting the pH of the eater to about 9.50. It is advisable to use deionised or softened water for latex dilution to prevent destabilisation of latex by free calcium and magnesium ions.