How Does Temperature Affect the Colloidal Stability of Latex?

Manufacturer: Lately we have been facing difficulties in controlling latex temperature due to high summer temperature within the factory production area. At the same time, we observed a high rate of rejection due to latex destabilization (coagulum formation). How does heat affect latex stability?

John Woon (Senior Latex Consultant): The kinetic energy of the rubber particles is increased when the latex temperature increases, for instance, when the ambient temperature of the factory is elevated during summer, the rubber particles tend to move at a much faster rate. This results in an increase in both the frequency and violence of the collision of rubber particles with each other. 

Furthermore, the elevated temperature of the latex will result in a drop in the pH due to the loss of ammonia, leading to latex destabilisation. The end result is coalescing and coagulation.

Natural rubber latex is therefore best stored at temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. A water chiller should be used, especially in the latex dip tank.