Micromanipulations of Latex in the Dark Field
Abstract It can be conclusively proved that the individual particle in latex of Hevea brasiliensis after the evaporation of the dispersing agent is surrounded by an adsorbed layer, probably of protein and resin. In the dispersed condition, the particle shows a difficulty penetrable and not deformable surface. After puncture a highly viscous mass flows out from the interior, and at the moment it comes in contact with the dispersing agent it stiffens to a plastic jelly, while the remaining shell exhibits remarkably elastic properties. After the evaporation of the dispersing agent, there occurs a progressive gelation and transformation into an elastic substance. The same result is obtained when the rubber phase is coagulated by acids or electrolytes. The establishment of this fact is important in connection with the usual preparation of raw rubber. It was proved that the consistency of the particles and the thickness of the elastic shell are dependent on the age of the trees. We are dealing not with a definite membrane, but with a variable enveloping shell whose strength seems dependent on the degree of polymerization of the hydrocarbon. In general the results of the present work prove the latest concepts of the structure of rubber, i. e., the existence of various degrees of polymerization, which can be traced back to the structure of the latex particles.