Preparation of Deproteinized Natural Rubber Latex and Properties of Films Formed by Itself and Several Adhesive Polymer Blends

This work aimed first to prepare deproteinized natural rubber latex (DNRL) and investigate the properties of films after it was blended with various adhesive polymers: hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose (HPMC), methyl cellulose (MC), sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (SCMC), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), poloxamer 407, and sodium alginate. The second aim was to identify the films that would be the best for medical and pharmaceutical applications. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), diethyl phthalate, dibutyl sebacate, triethyl citrate, and glycerin (GLY) were used as plasticizers to improve the elasticity and adhesiveness of the novel materials. DNRL was prepared by proteolytic alcalase enzyme treatment, followed by centrifugation. The DNRL was virtually free of protein, produced no significant reaction in the rabbit skin irritation test, and formed a good elastic film, but it had low skin adhesive properties. Blending DNRL with several polymers produced better films with different elastic and adhesive properties. Moisture uptake and swelling tests indicated that its films provided increasing hydrophilicity when blended with several polymers. SEM showed homogeneous films, and water hydraulic permeability tests indicated some porosity in matrix films. Blending DNRL with HPMC or PVA and DBP or GLY produced films with the best potential for novel materials. FT-IR, DSC, and XRD studies indicated the compatibility of the blended ingredients. In conclusion, DNRL blends could be used suitably for medical and pharmaceutical applications.