Silicone rubber differs from other elastomers in its unparalleled property range. Of particular interest are the characteristics resulting not from additives or surface treatment but from the polymer and filler structure. These are inherent properties of the silicone rubber.
Silicone rubber is highly transparent, chemically inert, does not contain organic plasticizers and therefore complies with medical standards Material Benefits Resulting from the Polymer Structure.
Silicones are characterized by a fully saturated backbone of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms. The Si-O links in the chain have an exceptionally high bond energy of 451 kJ/mol. C-C links, by comparison, have a bond energy of 352 kJ/mol. At the same time, the Si-O chain mobility is very high. The organic side groups shield the back- bone, so surface energy is low. silicone rubber is extremely heat resistant, odorless, tasteless and permanently elastic, making it predestined for seals and gaskets This results in the following properties:
Excellent high-temperature resistance combined with low-temperature flexibility
High resistance to chemicals and environmental influences
Water repellent surface