Research being undertaken at The
University of Queensland (UQ) Gatton Campus in Australia could prevent
potentially life-threatening
allergic reactions to conventional latex rubber which occur in 10%
of the population.
A study funded by the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation
(RIRDC) has evaluated new varieties of a latex rubber producing plant
known as guayule (pronounced whyoole).
Unlike the species traditionally used to produce latex rubber (Hevea
brasiliensis), guayule has the advantage of being non-allergenic. Guayule
also has the potential to be much cheaper to produce than synthetic
alternatives which are based on petroleum products.
According to Dr Doug George and Dr Madan Gupta, who supervise PhD
students undertaking field trials, the studies have concentrated on
variety evaluation, harvesting, seed production and processing, direct
seeding and seed dormancy.
“ Guayule is a semi-arid plant with the potential to become
a commercial crop in Australia,” Dr George said.
“ Guayule rubber possesses high performance properties such
as resilience, elasticity, abrasion resistance, efficient heat dispersion,
impact resistance and malleability at cold temperatures.
_ Due to its superior quality, this
natural rubber is an essential raw material for many products and
is often
being blended with synthetic
rubber. However, the highest quality rubber products are made from
100% natural guayule latex, for example medical gloves, catheters
and condoms.”
Dr George said previous intermittent attempts to commercialise guayule
in Australia had highlighted the need for further research to increase
rubber yields and decrease production costs.
“ Latest research in the USA resulted in the release of
high yielding lines,” he said.
“ New releases have produced significantly higher rubber
and resin yields compared to existing lines both here and in the
USA. The
broad objective of this study was to investigate the commercial potential
of guayule in Australia."
Guayule is a perennial crop native to Texas and Mexico. After two
years of growth, the plant is harvested and the latex removed from
the bark at the processing plant. Subsequent harvests occur annually
until year five when the plants are removed in their entirety and processed
roots and all.
Dr Premanwansa Dissanayake has completed his studies and Mr Guta Bedane
expects to finalise his research in early 2007. Both PhD students have
made a substantial contribution to guayule research.
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those of IvyRose Ltd.. Material in this news item was released
by the University of Queensland (Australia), on 12 April 2006. For
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