English Abstract

Update on Progress in Chloroprene Rubber (CR) Youichiro TAKENOSHITA Manager, Functional Polymers R&D Group Production & Technology Control Department Specialty Chemicals Division Showa Denko K.K. Nippon Gomu Kyokaishi,(2005),78(2),81-84 General Review in Japanese Abstract Chloroprene Rubber(CR) industry counted 70 years already after its discovery by Dr. Carothers, however CR still secures substantial portion of original market because of its well-balanced performance. This review overviews the progress in CR technology and market during the last 10 years. The major cause of declining demand is the aggressive replacement by other elastomers typically found in automotive and adhesive application. To save the situation, polymer development is focused on better storage stability of polymer in dry rubber field and longer open-time with good hot bond strength in adhesive application. Besides, latex field is being cultivated in relation to water-borne adhesives, dipped goods (especially medical disposable gloves), and asphalt modification. Also progress are observed in a research on hydrogenated polychloroprene (HCR) and an attempt to use CR latex as material to prepare effective Al electrolytic condenser although they are still experimental stage. We see the light on CR's future at the other end of the tunnel. Keywords: Dipped goods, Asphalt modification, Aggregates, Drainage pavement, Dynamic stability, ductility

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