Aggregation stability of natural rubber latex with low dry rubber content (DRC) in acidic medium

. Natural rubber latex was diluted from its original ca. 61% DRC (Dry Rubber Content) to 10% and the resulting material was studied with respect to its aggregation stability. Two non-ionic surfactants with distinct HLB (hydrophilic–lypophilic balance) and cloud point values were used to stabilize the dilute latex. The stability of the obtained materials was evaluated through the addition of acetic acid solutions of different concentrations, and measurement of the pH and coagulation times of the resulting mixtures. Independently of the nature and concentration of the surfactants, the same behavior was observed for all the systems. All the latex solutions were stable after the addition of the acetic acid solutions for at least thirty days.