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How is natural rubber different from synthetic rubber?

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Natural rubber and synthetic rubber differ primarily in their origin, chemical structure, and performance characteristics.

Origin and Production
* Natural rubber is an elastic substance obtained from the latex of tropical plants, most notably the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis).12
* Synthetic rubber is derived from petroleum and natural gas through industrial chemical processes, such as solution or emulsion polymerization.13

Chemical Structure and Properties
* Natural rubber consists almost exclusively of cis-1,4 polyisoprene, which allows it to be "self-reinforcing" because its molecules align into a crystalline arrangement when stretched.2
* Synthetic rubbers are engineered to have specific properties. For example, synthetic isoprene rubber is a near-equivalent to natural rubber but is typically less regular in structure, making it less strong and less tacky in its raw state. Other synthetic varieties, such as neoprene or nitrile rubber, are modified for superior resistance to oil, heat, or chemicals compared to the natural material.21

Both types can be improved through vulcanization, a process that creates cross-links between polymer chains to enhance durability and elasticity.12