MHT CET202615 April 2026Morning ShiftChemistryPolymersActual
Which properties from following is improved by vulcanization of rubber?
Options
- APlasticity
- BSolubility in water
- CTensile strength
- DElectrical conductivity
Correct answer
C. Tensile strength
Step-by-step solution
Natural rubber becomes soft at high temperatures and brittle at low temperatures. It also shows high water absorption capacity, is soluble in non-polar solvents, and has low tensile strength. To improve these physical properties, vulcanization is carried out by heating a mixture of raw rubber with sulfur and an appropriate additive. This process introduces sulfur cross-links between the polymer chains. As a result of vulcanization, the rubber becomes more elastic, less plastic, insoluble in organic solvents, and it