Articles

Latex and Natural RubberNewsrss1

New Engineering Research Center coming to OSU to study natural rubber

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The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) announced a 5-year investment of $104 million, with a potential 10-year investment of up to $208 million, in four new NSF Engineering Research Centers (ERCs) to create technology powered solutions that benefit the nation for decades to come.
One of the four new centers is TARDISS: Transformation of American Rubber through Domestic Innovation for Supply Security. The Ohio State University (OSU) partnered with Caltech, North Carolina State University, Texas Tech University, the University of California Merced, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and Case Western Reserve University for this new center. This makes OSU the only university in the nation to lead 2 ERCs simultaneously. Faculty members in the Food, Agriculture and Biological Engineering Department led the effort.

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ArticlesLatex and Natural Rubber

Condoms in sub-Saharan Africa: Quality requires responsible manufacturing with required independent testing

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Unleached latex products (such as Choice brand condoms tested in this study that are manufactured in China and distributed by the Republic of South Africa to prevent the spread of AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections) pose a significant risk of sensitization with life threatening Type I latex allergy and to residual sensitizing chemicals.

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ArticlesFeatured

Ready, set, decarbonize: Material science’s role in achieving carbon neutrality

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No matter where you and your company are in your decarbonization journey, there are steps to get you started or to accelerate your initiatives towards carbon neutrality. The challenge, in its depth and complexity, seems daunting; but practical options exist today that can help provide tangible change that we as design, engineering and business teams can use as a start.

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Newsrss2Testing & Instruments

Smithers invests in simulated on-vehicle acceleration testing machine in Suzhou laboratory

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Smithers has announced that it has invested in a state-of-the-art simulated on-vehicle acceleration testing (SOVAT) machine. This new testing capability was recently launched at the Smithers Suzhou, China laboratory with full machine demonstrations and tire testing training for attendees.

The SOVAT machine is the result of working with vehicle and tire manufacturers to understand their tire testing pain points. On-vehicle tire testing can be time-consuming and inconsistent, driving the need for faster, more repeatable methods for treadwear, chip and chunk, road hazard endurance, and break-in testing. With the SOVAT machine, clients now have an indoor, repeatable option to conduct this testing, providing results in a fraction of the time.

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Newsrss5Tire Technology & Manufacturing

How agricultural tire design helps maximize tire life and operator comfort

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As farms grow and fields get farther apart, farm equipment—especially tractors—spend more time on the road. Getting from field to field smoothly and quickly is crucial for productivity. Choosing tires that match your operation’s in-field and on-road needs ensures safe, efficient and comfortable road travel while maintaining performance in the field.

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