Abstract

This study aims to develop an innovative natural rubber latex foam (NRLF) composite by incorporating coconut shell activated carbon (Ac) and 2% copper-modified Ac (2%Cu/Ac). The NRLF was prepared using the Dunlop process and mixed with Ac and 2%Cu/Ac at concentrations of 0, 5, and 10 phr. The mechanical properties, morphology, crosslink density, and cadmium ion adsorption performance were investigated. SEM analysis revealed that the additives improved the stability of the foam’s open-cell structure. The results demonstrated that copper particles deposited on Ac enhanced the overall properties of the NRLF composite. The mechanical strength at 50% strain increased significantly, from 5.81 mN/m² for neat NRLF to 12.81 mN/m² with the incorporation of 10 phr 2%Cu/Ac. Crosslink density also improved with the addition of Ac and further increased with Cu-modified Ac. In terms of cadmium adsorption, the optimal performance was achieved with 5 phr 2%Cu/Ac, yielding an adsorption capacity of 0.89 mg/g. These findings highlight the potential of 2%Cu/Ac as a superior additive for enhancing the Cadmium adsorption and the performance of NRLF composites.