Solid natural rubber is widely used in adhesive formulations for making electrical insulation tapes, packaging tapes, and surgical tapes and plasters. The backing may be made from paper crepe, cloth, or synthetic materials, depending on the application. The rubber can be applied from solvents or calendered directly onto the backing. The following formulations are for packaging tape and surgical tape adhesives:
Parts by weight
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Initial shredding or granulation of the rubber aids dissolving. Alternatively, lightly mill the rubber and zinc oxide, then add solvent. Blend the swollen mixture in a Z-blade mixer until homogeneous, then add ester gum, antioxidant, and finally, lanolin.
The author acknowledges permission of the Rubber Research Institute of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, to cite the information on adhesive formulations.