Question

Vulcanization of rubber is carried out by heating a mixture of

• A. isoprene and styrene
• B. neoprene and sulphur
• C. isoprene and sulphur
• D. neoprene and styrene

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To understand the vulcanization process of rubber, we need to examine the components involved. Vulcanization is a chemical process for converting natural rubber or related polymers into more durable materials by the addition of sulfur or other equivalent curatives. In this process, the polymer chains are cross-linked by atomic bridges. The types of reactions involved during vulcanization strengthen the rubber, making it more elastic and heat resistant.

Let's evaluate the given options:

• Option 1: Isoprene and Styrene. Isoprene is a monomer from which natural rubber is made, while styrene is used in the production of synthetic rubbers, such as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), but they are not used together in vulcanization.
• Option 2: Neoprene and Sulphur. Neoprene is a type of synthetic rubber; it can be vulcanized using sulfur, but traditionally it requires metal oxides for curing.
• Option 3: Isoprene and Sulphur. This is the correct answer as isoprene is the primary monomer unit in natural rubber, and sulfur is commonly used in its vulcanization process. The addition of sulfur allows the formation of cross-links between the polymer chains, enhancing the rubber's properties.
• Option 4: Neoprene and Styrene. Neoprene is not typically vulcanized with styrene; they are components of different processes or products.

Thus, the vulcanization of rubber is carried out by heating a mixture of isoprene and sulphur.