What is the difference between natural latex and so-called synthetic latex?
Natural latex is obtained as the sap which is exuded when the bark of the tree, Hevea Brasiliensis, is cut or “tapped”. The rubber phase is ca 93% natural hydrocarbon; the remainder comprises natural products such as mineral salts and proteins. Rubber tress are cultivated, mainly in South East Asia, through a new planting and replanting program by large scale plantation and small farmers to ensure a continuous sustainable supply of natural latex. Synthetic lattex is derived from petrochemicals. They are manufactured by polymerization of emulsions of various petrochemical substances, most often butadiene and styrene. Synthetic additives are added to achieve stabilization. Being wholly petroleum based, the source of supply for the production of synthetic lattices is certainly non-sustainable and diminishing as well.
