Vulcanites

Vulcanites are a type of synthetic rubber, developed by Charles Goodyear in 1844. The term "vulcanite" is derived from Vulcan, the Roman god of fire, reflecting the process of heating rubber with sulfur to create a more durable material. This process, known as vulcanization, involves heating natural rubber with sulfur, which forms cross-links between polymer chains, enhancing the rubber's strength, elasticity, and resistance to solvents and aging. Vulcanites are widely used in various applications, including tires, hoses, belts, and other rubber products, due to their improved durability and performance compared to natural rubber. The invention of vulcanites revolutionized the rubber industry and laid the foundation for modern synthetic materials.