Latex

Latex, also known as rubber, is a natural polymer. It is taken from the milky sap of the rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis), native to the tropical forests of Central and South America.  

Today, much of the natural latex comes from Southeast Asia, such as Malaysia and Indonesia. Polymers made from artificial latex are called "synthetic rubber."  

Properties 
 Elasticity
 High mechanical resistance
 Non-adherent
 Electrical insulator
 Chemical resistance
 Insoluble in organic solvents

Vulcanization makes rubber useful in many products:
 Tires
 Shoe soles
 Flexible tubes
 Gloves
 Raincoats
 Bed mattresses

Category:Natural materials
Category:Polymers