Define vulcanization.

Vulcanization is a chemical process for converting natural rubber into the more durable material by heating them with sulphur which acts as an accelerator. Sulphur modify the polymer by forming cross-links between individual polymer chains. Vulcanized materials are less sticky and have superior mechanical properties.

Advantages of vulcanized rubber are:

● Excellent resilience i.e.it returns to the original shape, when the deforming load is removed

● Higher resistance to oxidation, wear and tear abrasion

● Resistant to organic solvents (petrol, benzene), fats and oils

● Good tensile strength and extensibility

● Low water absorption tendency and a better insulator