What is Silicone?

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Silicone is a polymer composed of silicon and oxygen, typically synthesized through a chemical process

Quartz sand

Raw Materials of Silicone

These raw materials are essential for producing high-quality silicone with specific properties tailored to various industrial and consumer applications

Primary Raw Materials

Silicon Dioxide (SiO2): Sourced from quartz sand, it serves as the primary raw material for silicon.

Metallic Silicon (Si): Produced by reducing silicon dioxide, this is essential for subsequent chemical reactions.

Chemical Reactants

Chlorine Gas (Cl2): Used to produce silicon tetrachloride.

Hydrogen Gas (H2): Used to reduce silicon tetrachloride to silane.

Additives and Agents

Catalysts and Cross-Linking Agents: Used to control the polymerization and cross-linking of siloxane chains to form the final silicone structure.

Additives: Including pigments, plasticizers, and antioxidants, these enhance the performance and appearance of silicone.

Sources of Silicone

The primary component of silicone is silicon dioxide (SiO2), which is widely found in nature in the form of quartz sand or sandstone. The process of manufacturing silicone involves extracting silicon from these natural resources and then synthesizing it through a series of chemical reactions.

Manufacturing Process of Silicone

Extraction of Silicon

Silicon is extracted from quartz sand. This process usually involves heating quartz sand with carbon in an electric arc furnace to produce metallic silicon and carbon dioxide

SiO 2 +2C→Si+2CO

Hydrogenation of Silicon

Silicon tetrachloride is reacted with hydrogen gas to produce silane (SiH4) and other hydrides

SiCl 4 +H 2 →SiH 4 +HCl

Chlorination of Silicon

Metallic silicon is reacted with chlorine gas to produce silicon tetrachloride (SiCl4)

Si+2Cl 2 →SiCl 4

Polymerization Reaction

Silane is polymerized through controlled chemical reactions to form siloxane chains, which further cross-link to form the silicone network structure

nSiH 4 →(SiH 2 O)n

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Types of Silicone

Silicone is classified into several types based on its physical and chemical properties

Liquid - Silicone Rubber (LSR)

Low viscosity, suitable for injection molding, widely used in medical devices, baby products, etc

High-Temperature Vulcanized (HTV) Silicone

Solid form, requires high-temperature vulcanization, suitable for seals, gaskets, etc

Room Temperature Vulcanized (RTV) Silicone

Cures at room temperature, used for coatings, sealants, etc

Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR)

Our Primary Uses of Liquid Silicone Rubber

Known for its low viscosity and suitability for injection molding, LSR is widely used in the production of high-quality silicone products.

Adult Products

High Flexibility and Softness: LSR provides the desired flexibility and softness, making it ideal for producing safe and comfortable adult products.
Non-Toxic and Hypoallergenic: Ensures user safety and comfort, meeting stringent health standards.

Kitchen and Tableware

Heat and Cold Resistant: Perfect for kitchen utensils and tableware, LSR withstands a wide range of temperatures without degrading.
Food Safe: Compliant with FDA standards, making it safe for direct contact with food.

Pet Products

Durable and Chew-Resistant: Ideal for pet toys and accessories, LSR’s durability ensures long-lasting use even with active pets.
Easy to Clean: Its non-porous surface makes LSR pet products hygienic and easy to clean.

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