GymRubberFloor.com Explains Vulcanization and Its Role in Rubber Gym Flooring

MILLTOWN, Wis., December 27, 2018 (Newswire.com) - Recycled rubber comes in many different shapes, sizes and consistencies. These repurposed rubber mats are either "revulcanized" and "non-revulcanized."

To understand revulcanized rubber, its important to first understand how the vulcanization process affects a rubber's quality and durability.

What is Vulcanization?
Vulcanization is rubber conversion process for creating a more durable and long-lasting product. By using additives, the rubber is modified and forms a cross-linking structure between the polymer chains. Vulcanized rubber materials are less sticky and usually stronger than non vulcanized rubber. 

Vulcanized rubber used in everything from shoe soles to tires, hoses and conveyor belts. 

The process uses high-pressure and temperatures after a curative has been added to the raw rubber material. Using a process of compression molding, the rubber is heated and molded. Sulfur, peroxides and/or metallic oxides are used to cure the rubber.

Devulcanization and Revulcanization
When tires and other rubber material is no longer needed the process of devulcanization is used to recycle the rubber, which reverses the vulcanization process. Devulcanizated rubber often needs to be revulcanized to be used for many rubber products.

Revulcanized materials have many of the same qualities as the original vulcanized rubber, but they are usually not used for tires. Instead, they make a great product for gym flooring and other products.

Advantages of Revulcanized Rubber for Your Flooring 

Because revulcanized materials have been reheated and molded instead of just bonded together with a urethane binder, the rubber is three to four times stronger, denser and more reliable than non-revulcanized material, and is completely waterproof. 

The waterproof quality of revulcanized rubber gym flooring makes the material ideal  gyms where perspiration and other liquids can drip or spill on the floor. They can be easily cleaned and disinfected.

For exercise areas and weight rooms, revulcanized rubber gym mats are usually the best choice. 

Revulcanized rubber products is that will not curl or change shape over time. They maintain a consistent size and lay flat over any surface, resulting in less need for adhesives or tape. 

Advantages of Non-Vulcanized Rubber Gym Flooring 

One of the main advantages of non-vulcanized rubber is smell. Revulcanized rubber gym flooring can have a strong rubbery scent that can be upsetting for those with sensitivity to smell. However, crumb rubber gym flooring that has not been revulcanized has a low odor. When choosing a surface for a small indoor gym or weight room, non-vulcanized rubber gym flooring is a good option. 

Non-vulcanized rubber is mildly permeable. If placed in water, it can float because of the small voids or pores in the rubber material. Although it is not as strong and durable, it is often softer and has more of a cushion-like consistency. This makes it better for gyms and exercise areas that want softer cushioning for feet and joints.

For more on this topic, visit GymRubberFloor.com.

Source: GymRubberFloor.com