ABSTRACT

The elastic properties of natural rubber and its ability to deform and snap back to shape have intrigued people for centuries. In particular, ball-sport players have utilized this property since ancient times; indeed, some form of ball game is portrayed on early Egyptian monuments. Of course, in the case of the sports ball, it is not only its elasticity and its ability to rebound that is important, but also good wear and resilience are usually essential properties to consider.