Description
An old brand name for a hard, dark, shiny rubber developed in the 1830s. The term Vulcanite was used for marketing in the U.S. while the name Ebonite was used in England. Vulcanite is produced by heating natural rubber with 10-32% sulfur. This is a much higher sulfur concentration than is usually used in vulcanization and the process results in an extremely brittle, dense moldable product. Vulcanite is naturally dark brown and opaque, but on exposure to light and moisture, the sulfur on the surface can oxidize forming a yellowish to greenish tinge. This surface is also acidic and can corrode adjacent metals. When warmed, vulcanite exudes a sulfurous odor. It was used to make combs, buttons, brooches, boxes, medallions, pens, and pencils. Vulcanite had good electrical insulation properties and was widely used for insulation.
See also vulcanization.
Synonyms and Related Terms
ebonite; vulcanita (Esp.);
Other Properties
Spot test for vulcanized rubber: Iodine/sodium azide reagent for presence of reducible sulfur compounds - positive reaction generates bubbles (Daniels and Ward, 1982)
Hazards and Safety
Emits hydrogen sulfide and other sulfur containing gases upon degradation.
Additional Information
° V.Daniels, S.Ward, "A Rapid Test for the Detection of Substances which will Tarnish Silver" Studies in Conservation 27:58-60, 1982.
° Plastics Museum Website
|
Last updated on: 8/25/2010 5:24:25 PM
|
|
 |
|
