Sulfur vulcanization been uncertainly as to whether it proceeds in a radical or ionic manner. The reactive sites, often referred to as 'cure sites', are unsaturated groups such as alkenes and allyls. During vulcanization, sulfur bridges are formed between these sites, crosslinking the polymer. These bridges may consist one or several sulfur atoms. Both the extent of crosslinking and the number of sulfur atoms in the crosslinks strongly influences the physical properties of the rubber produced: Sulfur, by itself, is a slow vulcanizing agent and does not vulcanize synthetic polyolefins. Even with natural rubber, large amounts of sulfur as well as high
Flowers of sulfur Flowers of sulfur Flowers of sulfur (older British spelling flowers of sulphur) is a very fine, bright yellow sulfur powder that is produced by sublimation and deposition. It is known as ' by apothecaries and in older scientific works. Natural sulfur was also known as brimstone, hence the alternative name flowers of brimstone. Flowers of sulfur were traditionally produced by subliming naturally occurring sulfur, known as "sulphur vivum". Impurities and moisture could cause acid residue in the product, so it was often washed, the result being known as "washed flowers of sulfur" (in Latin, "flores sulphuris loti"). Flowers of sulfur