In the world of plastics, silicone rubber is one of the most versatile. The additive can be blended with other plastics to create a finished product that has properties in the middle ground between its two components. Because of this, silicone rubber can be used in a wide variety of applications.

It’s often found in electronics, automotive and aerospace industries due to its ability to withstand heat, chemicals and humidity without warping or melting. It is also commonly used as an additive to create other plastic products with specific properties. There are several different types of silicone rubber, but they all have the same basic characteristics. This article will discuss some of the most common varieties and how they are used in different applications.

What is Silicone-Rubber?

Silicone rubber is a synthetic rubber that is produced by mixing silicone and other chemicals. It can be produced in a semi-rigid or flexible form and has a wide range of chemical, thermal and electrical properties. These properties make silicone rubber an ideal material for use in a wide variety of applications such as PTFE, O-rings and seals, connectors, gaskets, and medical products.

Silicone rubber is produced by mixing silicone with other chemicals like fillers (e.g. carbon black, carbon/graphite), and curing agents (e.g. ethyl silicate, methyl/ethyl silicate, polysiloxane). The silicone rubber is then formed into a mould and allowed to cure (a process that usually takes 2-3 days).

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Properties of Silicone Rubber

Silicone rubber is a naturally stretchy material that is also resistant to breakage and tearing. The silicone content in the rubber gives it a high resistance to most chemicals, extreme temperatures, and heavy loads. These characteristics make silicone rubber a good choice for a variety of applications.

Silicone rubber is non-conductive, making it a good option for making electrical and electronic devices, containers, and seals. Its high resistance to chemicals makes it a good choice for containers and transportation applications. Its high resistance to load makes it a good option for weight-bearing surfaces like tires and gaskets.

Advantages of Silicone Rubber

Silicone rubber is priced competitively compared to other rubber-based materials. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to create a new product on a budget. Silicone rubber is easy to work with and can be customized to meet specific needs. It is available in a variety of forms (e.g. sheet, tube, fibre, rod, etc.) and can be coloured with pigments. Silicone rubber has a long shelf life if stored properly. This makes it a good choice for those who will be using the material for long periods of time.

Applications of Silicone Rubber

Electrical and electronic devices – Electrical and electronic devices are often made with silicone rubber. Because silicone rubber is non-conductive, it is a good choice for devices that come into contact with high-voltage electricity. Electrical and electronic devices that are used in extreme temperatures are often made with silicone rubber. It is also used for power-generation equipment, transformers, and switchgear.

Electrical and electronic devices that come into contact with water, chemicals, or minerals are often made with silicone rubber. Silicone rubber is often used in the production of wires and cables, and the insulation around them. Silicone rubber is also used to create connectors, insulators, fuses, and switches. Medical devices – Silicone rubber is used in medical-related devices such as catheters and cannulas, blood bags and tubing, medical tubing and tubing connectors, medical pumps, and medical containers.

Medical devices that come into contact with blood and bodily fluids are often made with silicone rubber. Medical devices that come into contact with extreme temperatures (e.g. cryotherapy) are often made with silicone rubber. Medical devices that come into contact with chemicals are often made with silicone rubber. Medical devices that come into contact with minerals are often made with silicone rubber.

Transportation – Transportation-related products such as aircraft, marine vessels, and automobiles are often made with silicone rubber. Silicone rubber is very resistant to high temperatures, making it a good choice for marine vessels and aircraft. Silicone rubber is also resistant to chemicals, making it a good choice for marine vessels and aircraft.

Silicone rubber is resistant to wear, making it a good choice for marine vessels and aircraft. Silicone rubber is resistant to ozone, making it a good choice for marine vessels and aircraft. Other – Silicone rubber is used in many other industries, such as mining and mining equipment, mining transportation vehicles, mining structures, mining equipment accessories, and mining tools.

Limitations of Silicone Rubber

Silicone rubber does not stretch or flow naturally. This means it will not return to its original shape after being stretched. Silicone rubber has a low resistance to oils and solvents, making it a poor choice for those applications.

Silicone rubber has a low resistance to acids, making it a poor choice for those applications. Silicone rubber has a high resistance to alkaline, making it a poor choice for those applications. Silicone rubber may be considered toxic to humans. Silicone rubber is often more expensive than other rubber-based materials.

Key Takeaway

Silicone rubber is a synthetic rubber that can be blended with other plastics to create a finished product that has properties in the middle ground between its two components. Because of this, silicone rubber can be used in a wide variety of applications.

It is often found in electronics, automotive, and aerospace industries due to its ability to withstand heat, chemicals, and humidity without warping or melting. Silicone rubber is a good choice for electrical and electronic devices, transportation, and medical devices as it is resistant to breakage and tears, non-conductive, easy to work with, and has a long shelf life.

It is also non-toxic and resistant to acids, alkalines, and extreme temperatures. Silicone rubber does have its limitations, though. It does not stretch or flow naturally. It is also resistant to oils and solvents, making it a poor choice for some applications. Despite its limitations, silicone rubber is a good choice for a variety of applications.