Mingyi Silicone(Anhui) Co., Ltd
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Silicone oil is a unique material that plays a vital role across various fields. Different types of silicone oils each possess distinct properties, making them intricately connected to the applications of polymer materials. Let’s explore some of the common types of silicone oils.
Methyl silicone oil is considered the "star product" in the silicone oil family. It is colorless, odorless, and non-volatile, with extremely low vapor pressure and a flash point typically above 300°C, providing excellent stability even at high temperatures. With a wide temperature stability range from -50°C to 200°C, it also has high electrical insulation, a low viscosity-temperature coefficient that ensures relative viscosity stability under varying temperatures, and exceptional compression properties. Methyl silicone oil is widely used as an insulating, lubricating, shockproof, and dust-proof oil, as well as a dielectric fluid and heat transfer medium. In electronics and electrical applications, it protects components from high temperatures and humidity, effectively dissipating heat and extending equipment lifespan.
Phenyl silicone oil is classified into low-, medium-, and high-phenyl variants depending on the phenyl content. Low-phenyl silicone oil performs exceptionally well in low-temperature conditions, with a glass transition temperature below -100°C, making it suitable for equipment and materials required to function in extreme cold. Medium- and high-phenyl silicone oils are known for their high thermal stability and radiation resistance, with decomposition temperatures exceeding 400°C, making them indispensable in high-temperature and high-radiation environments. Widely used in hydraulics, instrumentation, and electrical insulation, phenyl silicone oil also finds applications in cosmetics as an additive. With its thermal and UV stability and compatibility with other ingredients, it adds a smooth texture and stability to cosmetics while providing moisturizing benefits.
Ethyl silicone oil operates within a temperature range of -60°C to 150°C, maintaining optimal viscosity even under changing temperatures. With excellent lubricating and dielectric properties, it is used in insulation materials, precision instruments, hydraulic oils, and specialty lubricants. In rubber and plastic production, ethyl silicone oil serves as a mold release agent. Its low volatility and low surface tension make it easy for rubber and plastic products to separate smoothly from molds, enhancing production efficiency and product quality.
Hydroxy silicone oil also holds a prominent place within the silicone oil family. It serves as a structural control agent in room-temperature silicone rubber production and a chain extender in other synthesis processes. With a hydroxyl value generally between 5% and 10%, it is used to manufacture organic silicone hydroxy emulsions, applied as treatments for fabrics, paper, and leather. Fabrics treated with hydroxy silicone oil exhibit enhanced softness and water resistance, forming a protective waterproof layer that prevents moisture penetration while retaining breathability, adding comfort to clothing. In silicone rubber production, hydroxy silicone oil optimizes processing, improving the rubber’s strength, abrasion resistance, and aging resistance.
Hydrogen silicone oil is another silicone oil with unique properties. Typically containing between 0.1% and 1.5% hydrogen, it can cross-link with various substrates under catalytic action at suitable temperatures, forming a waterproof layer. It is widely used as a waterproofing, anti-sticking, or anti-corrosion agent for fabrics, fire extinguishing agents, paper, metals, leather, wood, glass, cement, ceramics, and marble.
Silicone oils have a close relationship with polymer materials, offering a wide range of options for polymer processing, performance enhancement, and synthesis. Their diverse types and properties provide solid support for applications across numerous industries.
