Development of natural rubber encapsulation technology using spray drying: A comprehensive review

The latex processing stage is a critical step in the natural rubber industry. The choice of an appropriate processing method determines the sequence and duration of each stage, ultimately influencing both investment and operational costs. This review examines the encapsulating of natural rubber using spray drying technology and its market prospects. Conventional natural rubber processing involves intensive stages and a considerable amount of equipment, such as coagulation, milling, pre-drying, shredding, and drying. Simplifying this lengthy procedure and minimizing the need for intensive equipment can be achieved by employing encapsulation technology through spray drying. One of the key factors in the encapsulation of natural rubber particles is the use of non-adhesive additives, which help reduce the inherent tackiness of natural rubber. These additives act as encapsulating agents, enveloping natural rubber particles and preventing stickiness between them. The selection of additive materials is one of the crucial factors in applying spray drying technology for natural rubber. Given its numerous advantages, spray drying technology is suitable for small-scale applications, particularly in smallholder plantations. Encapsulated natural rubber products exhibit significant market potential as innovative alternatives. Several studies have investigated the drying process of natural rubber using spray drying technology with various encapsulating material alternatives. The results of these studies indicate that natural rubber latex can be processed into encapsulated natural rubber. Further comprehensive research is needed to evaluate its applicability in the production of end-use rubber products.