A rubber band (also known as an elastic band, gum band, or elastic loop) is a loop of rubber or elastic material that is used to hold multiple objects together. It stretches under tension and returns to its original shape when released.

Basic Properties

• Elasticity: The ability to stretch and return to original shape.
  
• Tensile strength: Measures how much force the band can take before breaking.
  
• Compression: Holds objects tightly due to contracting force.
  
• Resilience: Returns to shape even after multiple uses.
  
• Grip: Surface texture allows it to grip objects securely.
  

Materials Used

1. Natural Rubber (Latex)
   
   • Derived from rubber trees (Hevea brasiliensis).
     
   • High elasticity and strength.
     
   • Biodegradable.
     
   • Can cause allergic reactions in latex-sensitive individuals.
     
2. Synthetic Rubber (e.g., silicone, EPDM)
   
   • Made from petrochemical sources.
     
   • Often used in weather-resistant or high-temperature environments.
     
   • Non-allergenic options available.
     

Manufacturing Process

1. Mixing: Natural or synthetic rubber mixed with additives (sulfur, accelerators, pigments).
   
2. Extrusion: Rubber is extruded into long tubes.
   
3. Curing (Vulcanization): Heat-treated to improve elasticity and durability.
   
4. Cutting: Tubes are sliced into thin bands of various widths and thicknesses.
   
5. Finishing: Sometimes polished, dusted with talc or cornstarch to prevent sticking.
   

Types of Rubber Bands

• Standard Bands: General-purpose, varying sizes.
  
• Industrial Bands: Thicker and stronger for heavy-duty use.
  
• Postal Bands: Lighter for paper bundling.
  
• Silicone Bands: Heat and UV-resistant.
  
• Color-Coded Bands: For organizational use or coding.
  

Uses

• Office: Organizing papers, sealing envelopes.
  
• Industrial: Holding machine parts, packaging.
  
• Medical: Tourniquets, braces, exercise bands.
  
• Agricultural: Bundling produce, animal identification.
  
• Crafts & DIY: Art projects, tools.
  
• Household: Jar openers, cable management, food sealing.
  

Storage & Lifespan

• Storage tips:
  
  • Keep in a cool, dry place.
    
  • Avoid direct sunlight (UV degrades rubber).
    
  • Avoid oils and chemicals.
    
• Lifespan: Depends on use and environment; natural rubber degrades faster than synthetic.
  

Advantages

• Cheap and versatile.
  
• Easy to use and reuse.
  
• Widely available.
  
• Eco-friendly options (natural rubber).
  

Disadvantages

• Can degrade over time (especially in heat/sun).
  
• Potential latex allergies.
  
• Can snap under excessive stress.