WORCESTER, Mass.—Natural rubber latex manufacturer Vystar Corp. has extended and expanded its multi-year contract with Ranjit Matthan, head of research and development for Vytex rubber latex commercial raw materials and a member of the Vystar board of directors.
In his expanded role, Matthan will oversee multiple new research initiatives, and will be in charge of research and development for deproteinized dry rubber, which has potential in the automotive tire market, according to Vystar.
He also will continue development of custom formulations for specific applications of Vystar deproteinized latex, the company said.
Vystar also has contracted with Polymer Consultancy Services for execution of specific R&D activities under Matthan's direction, it said.
Among the initiatives outlined in Matthan's contract include:
- Broadening the range of products and applications for ultra-low protein rubber.
- Working closely with PCS and other assigned groups to conduct R&D and technical support services.
- Working with producer entities already association with ULPL Vytex production and processing in Vietnam, Thailand and Guatemala to further improve product quality and consistency.
- Encouraging entities to move from trial to commercial production of Vytex;
- Improving supply chain logistics; and
- Reviewing Vystar's patents and patent applications.
"Under Dr. Matthan's direction, and with the research team he has assembled, we believe there is a tremendous opportunity for the development of a new class of deproteinized dry rubber," said Vystar CEO Steve Rotman.