The effect of acid treatment on the extractable protein content and tensile properties of
natural rubber latex films was studied. The main aim was to introduce an alternative
method to tackle the protein allergy in natural rubber latex products. Natural rubber latex
was treated with various amounts of 7.0% hydrochloric acid to get pH values in the range of
2.0–9.0 at 70 C. Results showed that the extractable protein content of the films reduced
with reducing pH. The crosslink density, tensile strength and the elongation at break of
acid treated films were slightly lower than that of the untreated films. The moduli at
100% and 300% elongation of the films were not affected by acid treatment. Acid treatment
was found effective in reducing extractable protein content in natural rubber latex films.