Browsing by Author "Mensah Baah Michael"

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    Characterization of latex from trees in the Bobiri forest of Ghana
    (Resaerch Gate, 2019) Saah Ama Selina; Badu Mercy; Boadi Nathaniel; Mensah Baah Michael
    In this study, ten latex samples collected from different trees in the Bobiri forest in the Ashanti region of Ghana, were characterized based on FT-IR, viscosity, protein content, ash content, crosslink density, surface tension and rubber content. The results were compared to that of Hevea brasiliensis, which was used as reference. FT-IR analyses showed peaks at 1637.06 and 2963.61 cm‐1 (C-H bond) and 1450.06 and 1470.00 cm‐1 (C=C bond). These peaks are common with isoprene units (C5H8). Of all the samples, Hevea brasiliensis had the highest rubber contents of 56.18%, and lowest total solids and crosslink density of 14.98 and 0.08 respectively. Pycnanthus angolensis was the most viscous. With respect to total solids and coagulum content, Landolphia hirsuta had the highest percentages of 88.4 and 13% respectively. Based on their properties, these latexes could be used as alternatives to Hevea brasiliensis.