What is
silicone rubber?

a unique type of rubber

From drinking cups to sealants, silicone rubber is widely used in everyday life. What makes it unique is its structure, which differs significantly from other types of rubber. But in what way?

Unlike traditional rubber, silicone has what is called an indivisible structure. This means its form does not change due to heat, cold or dryness. This characteristic makes silicone rubber highly suitable for applications in the pharmaceutical, medical and food industries. Like NBR and SBR silicone rubber is also classified as a synthetic rubber.

all the colours of the rainbow

PROPERTIES OF SILICONE RUBBER

Silicone rubber is highly resistant to temperatures of up to 180 °C. It offers excellent weather resistance, high elasticity and can be produced in all colours, including transparent. This type of rubber can also be made in low hardness levels, making it ‘soft’ and highly flexible. A good example of this is baking moulds for cupcakes and larger cakes – silicone rubber prevents baked goods from sticking to the form.
Another interesting property is its excellent electrical resistance. For this reason, silicone rubber is used in high-voltage applications, such as electrically insulating couplings, protective covers and sheathing. Silicone gloves are also indispensable for technicians working on live electrical wiring.
Of course, silicone rubber has its limitations. It is not resistant to oil, fuel, acids or bases. Additionally, it has low wear resistance, low tensile strength, very low tear resistance and is a naturally static material, which means it tends to attract dust.