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Gutta-percha is a tree of the genus Palaquium in the family Sapotaceae. The name also refers to the rigid, naturally biologically inert, resilient, electrically nonconductive, thermoplastic latex derived from the tree, particularly from Palaquium gutta; it is a polymer of isoprene which forms a rubber-like elastomer.
The word "gutta-percha" comes from the plant's name in Malay: getah translates as "sticky gum" and pertja (perca) is the name of a less sought after gutta tree. The western term therefore is likely a derivative amalgamation of the original native names.[1]
- ^ Thulaja, Naidu, Ratnala; Rahman, Nor-Afidah, A (June 2019). "Gutta percha". National Library Board, Singapore. Archived from the original on 2024-09-10. Retrieved 2024-09-10.
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