cold rubber

synthetic

Also known as: low-temperature polymer rubber

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Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

Cold rubber is a type of synthetic rubber, specifically a GR-S type, produced at lower temperatures (around 41°F or 5°C). This "cold" polymerization process results in a more linear molecular structure with a narrower distribution of molecular weights compared to rubber made at higher temperatures.12

Key characteristics of cold rubber include:
* Lower viscosity: It flows more easily.2
* Increased wear resistance: This makes it particularly suitable for applications like tire treads.12

Synthetic rubber, in general, is manufactured through polymerization methods like solution or emulsion polymerization, often using monomers such as butadiene and styrene. The development of synthetic rubber was significantly spurred by natural rubber shortages during World Wars I and II.2345

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Carl Shipp Marvel
…research, he developed the “cold rubber” process for American industry. During the late 1950s, in his syntheses of high-temperature-resistant synthetic materials for the U.S. space program, he developed the technique of cyclopolymerization. In one of the most important advances in the chemistry of high-temperature polymers during the 1960s, Marvel…
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…research, he developed the “cold rubber” process for American industry. During the late 1950s, in his syntheses of high-temperature-resistant synthetic materials for the U.S. space program, he developed the technique of cyclopolymerization. In one of the most important advances in the chemistry of high-temperature polymers during the 1960s, Marvel…
Read More