| Silicone - Silicones are a family of semi-organic polymers comprising chains of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms, modified with various organic groups attached to the silicon atoms. Silicones are the largest group of plastic materials that are not based on carbon atoms and they can be polymerized into three common forms; oils (generally used as additives for mold release and lubrication), elastomers, and molding compounds. Silicone elastomers are available as either one- or two-component systems (like epoxy systems with a hardener). The one-component systems cure on contact with atmospheric moisture, but they can be formulated to cure at room temperature (RTV), or at high temperature (HTV). Silicones are tough and flexible with good solvent, moisture, and weathering resistance. | |
| The earliest silicones were dimethyl polysiloxanes, made by treating silicon derived from sand with methyl chloride in the presence of a catalyst to form a cyclic trimer of siloxane, then polymerizing the siloxane to form a dimethyl polysiloxane. | |
| Features Room Temperature Vulcanizing (159), Good Tear Strength (118), High Heat Resistance (87), Low Viscosity (85), Electrically Insulating (79), Low Shrinkage (70), High Strength (65), High Clarity (64), Fast Cure (62), Good Flexibility (57), 110 More... | Uses Seals (151), Electrical Parts (98), Sealants (85), Electrical/Electronic Applications (70), Adhesives (69), Coating Applications (67), Aerospace Applications (61), Gaskets (60), Connectors (52), Automotive Applications (46), 77 More... |
| Disadvantages - Increased costs - Lower mechanical property values when compared to carbon based materials | Typical Properties and Processing Information
View material property information for Silicone (Silicone) plastics.
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Silicone (Silicone) Plastic
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