The hardness of natural rubber (NR) is available in a wide range, specifically Shore A 30-90. This measurement is based on the Shore hardness scale, a common method for determining the hardness of rubber and plastics.
Understanding Shore Hardness
Hardness is a key property that determines how well a material resists indentation. For natural rubber, this is typically measured using the Shore A scale, which is suitable for softer materials. A higher number on the Shore A scale indicates a harder material, while a lower number indicates a softer, more flexible material.
Learn more about Shore Hardness
Hardness Range for Natural Rubber
Based on the available specifications, natural rubber (NR) exhibits a significant range of hardness.
- Material: Natural Rubber (NR)
- Hardness Scale: Shore A
- Available Range: 30 to 90
This broad range means that natural rubber can be formulated or processed to achieve different levels of rigidity or flexibility depending on the intended application.
Natural Rubber Hardness Specifications
| Material | Hardness Scale | Hardness Range |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Rubber (NR) | Shore A | 30 - 90 |
Applications Reflecting Hardness Diversity
The versatility in hardness makes natural rubber suitable for numerous applications, as specified by the reference:
- Soft Rubber (Lower Shore A): Often used for items requiring high flexibility, elasticity, and good sealing properties. Examples include:
- Gloves
- Sponges
- Certain types of seals and membranes
- Medium Hardness Rubber (Mid Shore A): Common for general-purpose technical items and consumer goods. Examples include:
- Hoses
- Rubber bands
- Shoe soles
- Harder Rubber (Higher Shore A): Used in applications requiring greater durability, abrasion resistance, and structural integrity. Examples include:
- Vehicle tyres
- Transport bands and belts
- Technical items exposed to significant wear
This demonstrates how the controllable hardness of natural rubber allows it to function effectively in a diverse array of products, from very soft and yielding items to relatively firm and durable components.
