Production

Rubber Tree Farming

The rubber process begins with seeds being raised in a nursery. Once the rubber seeds have reached around 5 cm in diameter, they are placed 3.5 to 6 meters apart to grow into trees. The biggest problem affecting rubber tree growth is weeds. Farmers must have a long-term plan for controlling the weeds because without one the weeds could easily kill the rubber tree by shading it, stealing vital nutrients and moisture, as well as inviting insects and diseases detrimental to the rubber trees. Farmer's usual weed management is pruning and spraying to get rid of weeds, but recently they have found using "weed strips" which are placed around the seeds has been an effective strategy. It is important that rubber trees receive a moderate amount of water, needing to be watered once every 7 to 10 days. It typically takes between 5 to 7 years for a mature rubber tree to be grown.

Rubber Tree Harvesting

The process of tapping is quite simple, beginning with scoring the tree at a 30 degree angle for about half of its circumference. The bark is then removed with which a spout can be placed into the tree, allowing for the sap to drip out. Rubber trees are usually tapped about once every two days, with a new cut being made directly below the previous one each time.

Production Process for Crumb Rubber

The process of making crumb rubber consists of sapping the rubber trees, followed by transportation to factories for processing. These rubber slabs are then shredded, washed, and hanged to dry, before being shredded and dried a second time. There after they go through testing with approved rubber blocks being shipped to warehouses for storage before being dristributed worldwide.

Production Process for Latex

The process of making latex consists of sapping rubber trees and leaving the sap in a liquid form, unlike rubber crumb which is allowed to coagulate into slabs. The liquid sap is then sent to factories to be processed, where it is skimmed, and sent through a centrifuge to separate the water. Ammonia is then added and the mixture is sent through a blender to ensure even distribution. The resulting product is then filled in containers before being shipped out and stored in tank terminals before being distributed worldwide.

Top 3 Rubber Producers Worldwide

Natural Rubber Production in Metric Tons (Thailand)

Thailand is the leading producer of rubber, comprising over 35% of the worlds rubber production.

Natural Rubber Production in Metric Tons (Indonesia)

Indonesia is the second leading producer of rubber, although they have a low usage in their country, leading to over 80% being exported.

Natural Rubber Production in Metric Tons (Vietnam)

Vietnam is the third leading producer of rubber, comprising over 10% of the worlds rubber production.

Page updated

Report abuse