Synthetic rubber
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Synthetic rubber was a vital innovation in the rubber industry, spurred by the need for rubber during wartime shortages. During World War II, the U.S. faced a significant challenge when the Japanese forces captured key rubber-producing regions, cutting off the natural rubber supply. In response, the U.S. commissioned extensive research and development efforts among chemists and engineers to create synthetic rubber. This led to the invention of GRS (government rubber styrene), which by 1944 enabled the U.S. to produce synthetic rubber in quantities that exceeded the combined global production of natural rubber. This achievement marked one of the most significant accomplishments in chemical engineering at the time and set the standard for synthetic rubber production 1.
In modern times, synthetic rubber remains a crucial component in various industries. For instance, it is extensively used in manufacturing tires, where it helps to enhance durability and performance under different environmental conditions. Synthetic rubber, which forms a major part of tire composition, contributes to microplastic pollution, as the wear and tear of tires release small rubber particles into the environment 2 3.
The development and widespread adoption of synthetic rubber have substantially reduced dependence on natural rubber, altering the economic landscape for traditional rubber-producing countries. This shift has led to a decline in the importance of natural rubber in many applications, although natural rubber is still utilized in specific areas 4 5.
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