The application of electric power to the rubber industry: By the sub-committee of the industrial and domestic power committee on the rubber industry

HISTORY shows that something was known of rubber to civilization as early as 1525. In 1736 a French expedition of scientists, who were sent to South America for geographical research, sent back samples of rubber, and reported that it was obtained from a certain tree which the natives called hevea. Even at this early date they further reported that the natives were using this material to waterproof various articles of wearing apparel. This material was soon used in England for removing pencil marks, and hence has been termed rubber.