I try to recycle or compost as much as I can and just replaced the wipers on our car. I've scrapped the metal to recycle, but wonder how long if ever it takes rubber to biodegrade. It seems like rubber comes from trees which is what got me thinking about it. Anyone have an idea? Thanks.
2007-10-13 05:39:21 · 3 answers · asked by Crox Trader 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
If it's synthetic or vulcanized, the rubber will not biodegrade.
2007-10-13 05:47:10 · answer #1 · answered by confused. 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The material properties of natural rubber make it an elastomer and a thermoplastic. However it should be noted that as the rubber is vulcanized it will turn into a thermoset. Most rubber in everyday use is vulcanized to a point where it shares properties of both i.e. if it is heated and cooled it is degraded but not destroyed.
I hope it helps!
2007-10-13 05:49:57 · answer #2 · answered by Rhonnie 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
ONCE IT HAS BEEN VULCANIZED YOU PRETTY MUCH GOT IT TO DEAL WITH.
2007-10-13 06:30:06 · answer #3 · answered by Loren S 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋