Chinese researchers have turned to the Gobi Desert as a testing ground for high-value rubber-producing trees. Rubber derived from the Duzhong plant has proven especially valuable for defence applications: adding just 3 to 5 per cent to a rubber compound significantly boosts durability and wear resistance in high-performance, puncture-resistant tyres, while the material is also used in electromagnetic shielding composites. Until recently, Duzhong was grown mainly in central and southern China.

This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever