▎ 摘　　要

NOVELTY - Process for preparing graphene oxide comprises subjecting an aqueous dispersion of a graphite to an exfoliation step by high shear mixing at a mixing speed equal to or greater than 3000 rpm and to an oxidation step with an oxidizing agent selected from hydrogen peroxide, optionally mixed with acetic acid, potassium hydroxide and their mixtures, where the graphite exfoliation step can precede, follow or be conducted together with the oxidation step. USE - The process is used for preparing graphene oxide used in rubber latex composition for rubber antimicrobial article such as glove, cot, catheter, surgical drainage tube, condom, contraceptive diaphragm, bath cap and mattress (all claimed). ADVANTAGE - The process obtain graphene oxide in a simple, economical and reproducible manner, and guarantees antimicrobial action of rubber articles over extended period of time. DETAILED DESCRIPTION - INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are included for the following: a rubber latex composition comprising a rubber latex where an antimicrobial agent is dispersed, the antimicrobial agent comprises at least graphene oxide; a rubber antimicrobial article comprising an antimicrobial agent comprising a graphene oxide, where the article is formed from a rubber latex composition; use of a graphene oxide to impart antimicrobial properties to a rubber, optionally in combination with at least one antimicrobial substance other than the graphene oxide; and process for producing the antimicrobial rubber article comprises (i) mixing a rubber latex with an aqueous dispersion comprising a graphene oxide to obtain a latex composition, (ii) depositing the latex composition from step (i) on the surface of a mold, (iii) evaporating water from the latex composition, and (iv) removing the antimicrobial rubber article from the mold.