The reduction of molar mass and consequent decrease in viscosity are evident effects when polymeric solutions are submitted to high intensity ultrasound. The ultrasonic degradation of natural rubber (NR) from Hevea brasiliensis, in tolueno, was studied by GPC. The effects of temperature and time of irradiation on polydispersion of NR were analysed.
Ultrasound; degradation; natural rubber; Hevea brasiliensis; gel permeation chromatography