[Simple Simon (OP)]

I have question related to my writing. I apologize if this is considered too speculative.

My question is how technically possible it would be for ancient people to invent vulcanized rubber. From what I've heard, formic acid is necessary to prepare the rubber before sulfur can be added. I'm not sure how John Ray isolated it from ants, and his method might have only been possible by the 17th century.

Normal non-vulcanized rubber has been around since early times, so that aspect is easily arranged.

[Bored chemist]

I think you could use acetic acid (from vinegar) instead of formic.

[Simple Simon (OP)]

That would make things much easier. Though you may never get that vinegar smell out....

Thank you Bored chemist!