01759nam a2200277Ia 4500 TVU_12376 210423s9999 xx 000 0 und d 0198568401 9780198568407 eng 678.209 J427 Loadman, John Tears of the tree the story of rubber-a modern marvel John Loadman Oxford,New York Oxford University Press 2005 336 p. ill. 22 cm Imagine a world without rubber--neither tires for driving or flying nor bouncing balls for sports, neither seals for washing machines and dishwashers, nor medical gloves--no elastics. This unique book tells the fascinating story of four thousand years of rubber--from its significance in Mayan religious rituals and culture to its pivotal role in today's world. It is seen through the lives of the adventurers and scientists who promoted it, lusted after it and eventually tamed it into the ubiquitous, yet crucial material of our lives today. It also examines the lives of those who caused the deaths of millions of natives in Africa and South America while seeking to satisfy the developing world's demand for this material. Written in a biographical format, the book examines why rubber ages and deteriorates and how the ravages of time may be ameliorated. It deals with our current concern for the environment and various options for 'waste disposal'. For the majority of people who think they know 'the truth' about rubber, this book may offer many surprises Rubber; Rubber industry and trade John Loadman Trung tâm Học liệu Trường Đại học Trà Vinh