Niche Industrial Applications: Citrus Oils in Rubber and Polymer Processing

two factory workers inspecting rolls of rubber where citrus oils are being used in industrial applications

New Value in Specialized Manufacturing

Citrus oils are being adopted in specialized industrial processes, where their effectiveness and green profile are especially valued. In rubber reclamation, d-limonene acts as a solvent that can break down vulcanized polymers without toxic byproducts.

Applications in Rubber and Polymer

  • Rubber Devulcanization: Enables recycling of post-consumer rubber materials, reducing landfill load and supporting circular economy practices.
  • Green Additives: Used as plasticizers or compatibilizers in rubber and certain bioplastics.
  • Mold Cleaning: Citrus oils gently clean production molds, increasing uptime and extending mold lifespan.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

Substituting citrus oils for legacy chemicals:

  • Reduces hazardous waste generation,
  • Cuts operational costs related to compliance and disposal,
  • Improves worker safety with less hazardous material handling.

The use of citrus derivatives aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for responsible production and consumption. For further reading on industrial applications, visit Manufacturing.net’s feature on citrus oil in chemicals and plastics.

Transform your industrial process with sustainable citrus oil solutions from ICC. Contact us or request a quote today to start your journey toward greener manufacturing.

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