ASTM International’s rubber committee (D11) has formed a new subcommittee that will focus on alternative sources of natural rubber and natural rubber latex. Polymer experts, as well as representatives from regulatory bodies, are encouraged to join in developing new standards within this subcommittee.

According to ASTM International member and former board chair Tom Marsh, who will lead the subcommittee, products made from sources covered by the subcommittee include medical devices and personal protective equipment.

“This subcommittee will address the development of alternative polymers from natural sources other than traditional hevea-based origins,” says Marsh, global head for technical services, product development, and laboratory services, Corrie MacColl International. “Developing these standards will open up sourcing and supply in North America and Europe to compliment global supply from Southeast Asia and Central America.”

The new subcommittee (D11.21) will be developing standards covering agricultural growth operations, processing, colloidal and physical testing of raw material, as well as in-process and finished goods made from raw material. 

“Standards that will be developed by the subcommittee will benefit a full range of stakeholders, from growers to distributors; compounders to manufacturers; laboratories to consumers,” says Marsh. 

This effort directly relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #12 on responsible production and consumption. 

ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN. 

Media Inquiries: Dan Bergels, tel +1.610.832.9602; dbergels@astm.org
Committee Contact: Melissa Marcinowksi, tel +1.610.832.9626; mmarcinowski@astm.org 

Release #11030

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