Silicone is a synthetic compound developed from silicon and some other substances. Various types of silicone are available in the market, each with its own set of uses in different industries.
In this blog, we’ll learn about the different types of silicone and its applications.
Different types of silicone
Liquid Silicone:
Liquid silicone is a versatile form of silicone rubber used in healthcare manufacturing, consumer products, electronics, and automotive components. It can last up to 20 years, acting as a waterproof silicone, provided that its curing process is done properly. Liquid silicone has no harmful effects when it comes in contact with the human skin. It is durable, flexible, and soft to the touch.
RTV Silicone:
RTV stands for room temperature vulcanizing. This type of silicone does not require heat for the curing process to take place. It cures at room temperature. When RTV silicone is applied, the stabilizing agent present in the silicone starts reacting with the moisture present in the air, curing the outside layer.
Fluorosilicone:
Fluorosilicone is a derivative of the polysiloxane (silicone) molecule. It has the same base silicon-oxygen chain. But in the case of a typical silicone molecule, some of its methyl (CH3) groups are substituted with trifluoropropyl groups. This change provides fluorosilicone with better resistance to several troublesome service environments including fuel and oil, mineral spirits, toluene, and other organic solvents.
Fluorosilicone allows for this kind of chemical resistance with almost no difference in mechanical properties from ordinary silicone. Hot air fluorosilicone is less active than silicone and is substantially more expensive. It is best applied to aerospace and automotive environments as fuel and another chemical contamination is a higher probability.
Silicone Oil:
Silicone oil is one product made from silicone and is widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and medical applications. It is a liquid polymerized siloxane with organic side chains.
Silicone oils have great thermal stability (up to 250 degrees Celsius) and are flexible in extreme temperatures. Silicones also spread on surfaces easily due to their very low surface tension and have high compressibility in comparison to different hydrocarbon and mineral oils. Siloxane polymers possess good dielectric properties and outstanding resistance to shear stresses, natural aging, oxidation, and hydrolysis.
High Consistency Rubber:
High-consistency silicone rubber is sometimes referred to as “solid silicone” or “gum stock”. It consists of large polysiloxane chains. HCR, in turn, may include a set of filters that improve special properties including hardness and heat resistance. HCR can be treated with either peroxide curing systems or platinum catalyst formulations. The former does not generate any chemical byproducts through curing. The material is sold in bulk forms such as Bars, tubes, and cylinders for further treatment. HCR is an eminent material for implantable medical devices that can be used for a long time, automotive engine parts, and many small household products.
Caulk:
It is a room-temperature vulcanized silicone that has superior adhesion, durability, and workability. Silicone caulk is used to seal joints and protect the materials against leakage.
Conclusion
In this blog, we understood the 6 different types of silicones present in the market and their applications in the concerned industries. Silicone sealants are also one of the most common uses of silicone for bonding and sealing materials. They are flexible, durable, and resistant to UV radiation. Silicones also can maintain their chemical and physical properties over time and in extreme temperatures. They are non-toxic; thus they are also used in the domain of pharmaceuticals and health care.
Over the years, the use and application of silicone have only increased. Various types of silicone are being developed for different uses. If you are also looking for a perfect silicone raw material for your product, get in touch with us now and fulfill your requirements at its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are silicones classified?
Silicones can be classified according to their application, chemical composition, and their physical characteristics.
What are the 3 types of silicone rubber?
The 3 types of silicone rubber are high-temperature silicone, room-temperature silicone, and liquid rubber silicone.
Are there different grades of silicone?
Yes, there are different grades of silicone like industrial grade, food grade, and medical grade.