An Extensive Overview of Silicone Material
This manual will provide you with comprehensive knowledge about silicone material, from its properties to the manufacturing process, applications, and classification criteria.
With this guide, you will be able to become an expert in the silicone industry.
What is the composition of Silicone Material?
Silicone is a non-reactive material composed of inorganic [-SiO2-] units, which act as its base structure.
It is also known as polysiloxane and is a manufactured material with the characteristics of both rubber and plastic.
It can be found in the form of oil/liquid, rubber, or resin.
A synthetic material composed of various elements, silicone consists of silicon, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen as its essential components.
The side chain may comprise additional organic elements, which impart distinct characteristics to the silicone. This enables the formation of various hybrid materials tailored for particular applications.
It is essential to distinguish between silicon and silicone, as the former is a by-product of silica (silicon dioxide), which is obtained from quartz or sand.
Silicone Manufacturing Process
The fabrication of silicon entails a series of chemical reactions such as reduction, hydrolysis, and polymerization.
The type of end-product (e.g. silicone resin, silicon fluid, silicone rubbers) may influence the specific processes.
The primary stages of silicone producing involve:
Heating a combination of gravel or quartz and carbon source at approximately 1800˚C, which results in the production of silicon and carbon monoxide – the latter of which is a crucial component for the following step;
Mixing silicon with methyl chloride and heating, resulting in a chain reaction that generates dimethyldichlorosilane;
Purifying the dimethyldichlorosilane to isolate chlorosilanes compounds, followed by adding water to form disilanol and hydrochloric acid;
The condensation of disilanol with the help of hydrochloric acid as a catalyst, thus producing polydimethylsiloxane.
It is evident that the chemical compound polydimethylsiloxane is linked together by siloxane bonds.
Through the synthesis of polymers, various grades of silicone can be produced, including resin, liquid, and rubber.
Comparing Siloxane Bonds And Molecular Structure
The advantages of silicone materials can be attributed to their special molecular structure and bonding.
The purpose of this tutorial is to cover the fundamentals of bonds and the anatomy of silicone materials.
If you are interested in furthering your knowledge, additional materials can be located at the conclusion of this manual.
Siloxane Bonds And Molecular Structure
The [-Si-O-Si-] sequence serves as the core of siloxane. It is supplemented with optional side chains.
Consequently, silicone will exhibit both organic and inorganic characteristics.
The intermolecular strength of silicone is key to its heat-resistance; the siloxane bonds within the material remain unharmed even when exposed to temperatures as high as 200°C.
The strong chemical bonds allow for strong resistance to chemical and environmental factors.
As an example, silicone substances may come in a variety of forms:
- Silicone fluids are distinguished by their average molecular mass.
- Members of the silicone elastomer family are renowned for their high molecular weight and interlinked polymers.
- Despite their relatively low molecular mass, silicone resins possess both hydroxyl and alkoxy groups with functional properties.
It is noteworthy that these molecules are capable of undergoing hydrolysis, resulting in the formation of highly cross-linked structures.
It is possible to attain these objectives when producing silicone.
While silicone contains ethyl (CH3) and vinyl (CH2), its distinguishing characteristic is the lack of carbon in its molecular structure, rendering it a distinct polymer.
Properties of Organosilicon Materials
Silicone has a number of features that make it appropriate for a wide array of uses. A few of these qualities include:
- A great ability to endure high temperatures
- Low toxicity level
- Limited capacity for chemical transformation
- Enhanced thermal insulation capabilities
- Poor heat transfer capability
- Outstanding in repelling moisture
- Exceptionally durable in the presence of ultraviolet radiation, ozone, and oxygen
- Possession of a high rate of diffusion of gases
- Outstanding attachment to glossy surfaces
- Material that does not catch fire easily
- Does not encourage the proliferation of microorganisms
Applications Of Silicone Material
Silicone can take the form of either a solid or a liquid, thus offering a wide range of possible uses, including:
Personal care products
Typical uses of the product are shampoos, makeup, hair conditioners, and skincare items.
Construction industry
This assists in keeping bacteria and dampness from accumulating in building materials.
Painting and coating
Typical uses of the product are shampoos, makeup, hair conditioners, and skincare items.
Solar panels
Enhance the productivity of solar panels.
Electrical and electronics
This assists in keeping bacteria and dampness from accumulating in building materials.
Aerospace industry
Adhesives and sealants are an essential component.
Specialized seals are used to secure engine gaskets, hydraulic components, electrical components, doors, windows, and other elements.
- Kitchenware – Most cookware use silicone seals. Others include chocolate molds, non-stick cookware, lids, etc.
- Lubricants and sealants – Several silicone-based products such as sealants and lubricants are available in the market.
- Apparel – Goggles and diving masks are manufactured from silicone material.
- Toys – Given the reduced toxicity of the material, silicon-based toys are a suitable selection for the majority of infant toys. Additionally, silicone baby toys are commonly sought after.
- Cleaning – Silicone is included in the ingredients of dry cleaning solutions.
- Medicine industry – Silicone is employed for a variety of purposes, such as for healing scars, as implants, and in ophthalmology.
In short, silicone is a perfect choice for most applications.
Types Of Silicone Material
When it comes to silicone compounds, there are various choices that can be found in the market. Nonetheless, these are the four key options to consider:
- Room temperature vulcanizing (RVT) –These materials are optimal for both creating a seal and adhering different surfaces together as they harden or set without the need for any kind of heat.
- Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) – In order to harden these silicones when exposed to elevated temperatures, a platinum catalyst is necessary.
- Fluorosilicone Rubber (FSR) – They possess an outstanding ability to resist lubricants and fuels, which makes FSR a highly sought-after sealant in the aerospace sector.
- High consistency rubber (HCR) –This silicone exhibits a high molecular weight, making it a popular material used in the production of medical devices.
In addition to these, silicone may exist in an array of forms which include emulsion, oil, resin, caulk, liquid, solid, grease, gel, or foam.
Conclusion
Evidently, silicone is a very adaptable material that is essential in many industries because of its similarity to rubber and plastic in terms of its characteristics.
Before making a decision to use silicone material, make sure the formulation satisfies your project’s requirements.
If you are looking for silicone items from China, get in touch with us right away.
Our Wide Range of Silicone Grade Options
General Purpose Silicone
Silicones used for a variety of applications have outstanding mechanical and physical capacities. They are also highly resistant to temperature and prolonged use.
Platinum Cured Silicone
Platinum-cured silicone is employed to enhance the efficiency of the molding process. It has a remarkable tensile strength and is certified in compliance with FDA regulations.
High Strength Silicone
Silicone of superior strength is distinguished by its impressive tear resistance and capability of stretching to great lengths. It is a perfect choice of material for extrusion, molding, and calendaring production.
Conductive Silicone
The volume resistivity of conductive silicone is quite low, and it can be shaped or formed through various procedures, including extrusion, molding, and calendaring.
High Temperature Silicone
Silicones of this kind can cope with temperatures up to 300⁰C; however, it is not suggested to be used for long-term use as it could lead to rigidness.
Low Temperature Silicone
The formulation of the low-temperature silicone incorporates a phenyl-based material, which prevents it from hardening and becoming rigid.
Fluorosilicone Rubber
Flourosilicone rubber boasts a significant level of chemical resistance, including to solvents, petrol, diesel, and other hydrocarbon liquids. Its tensile strength is also impressive.
Wire and Cable Silicone Rubber
Silicone rubber for wiring and cabling is employed extensively for functions that necessitate superior electrical functioning. It is endowed with remarkable mechanical and physical characteristics.
Insulating Silicone
These types of silicones are generally employed for electrical insulation purposes. They can withstand environmental deterioration and flame arc tracking operations.
Low Toxicity and Smoke Silicone
Silicone-based materials are commonly employed in a wide range of applications, such as cable insulation, interior decoration, HVAC ventilation, weatherproof seals, door and window seals, transportation, and beyond.
Non-Post Cure Silicone
Non-post cure silicones are developed to help reduce the expenses related to the fabrication of silicone products. Typically, these silicones are post cured to improve the final qualities and to minimize the evaporating of the peroxide materials that form during the curing process. It is known for its remarkable resistance to compression set, thus making it apt for sealing functions.
Anti-Microbial Silicone
Non-toxic silicone is devoid of any hazardous chemicals and germs. It is employed in creating various products that are utilized in the food and beverage sector, medical care, and many other industries.
One-Stop Silicone Product Solution
Haotian is with you every step of the way when it comes to your silicone supply, from bringing your concept to fruition to sending out your cleaned and packaged goods. Our facility is equipped with 8 assembly lines that are 40 meters long and strict 5S management and quality control protocols are enforced on-site.