Abstract:

Natural rubber latex (NRL) has been exploited commercially for more than 100 years. It is derived from the milky sap of the Hevea brasiliensis tree, found in tropical climates such as Southeast Asia. Latex is harvested from the tree by a process called tapping, which has been described as a controlled wounding of the tree. The world's total consumption of natural rubber latex is about 5,5 million tons per year. The liquid which is collected from the tree is called field latex and is made up of water, 30%to 40% rubber, and about 3% nonrubber material.

Authors:

Patricia Ann Fleming, R.N., B.A. - Ansell Perry, Inc., Massillon, Ohio

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