Silicone Properties

Silicone rubber, a synthetic polymer, has a strong silicon-oxygen chemical structure that gives the elastomer its unique performance properties. Derived from quartz, rock or sand, silicone rubber has an alternating silicon and oxygen backbone, unlike organic polymers made up of a less tenuous carbon-carbon band. The process of vulcanization transforms this structure, allowing the silicon-oxygen polymer to become an elastic rubber.

Silicone rubbers can be sterilized by ETO, radiation and repeated steam autoclaving.

Temperature Resistance

Silicones withstand a wider range of temperature extremes than nearly all other elastomers, remaining viable from -75 degrees F to +500 degrees F.

Mechanical Properties

Silicone rubbers have high tear and tensile strength, good elongation, great flexibility and a durometer range of 5 to 80 Shore A. Softer durometers are available as reinforced gels.

Electrical Properties

Silicones exceed all comparable materials in their insulating properties as well as flexibility in electrical applications. They are non-conductive and maintain dielectric strength in temperature extremes far higher or lower than conventional materials can handle.

Biocompatibilty

Silicones are formulated to comply with FDA, ISO and Tripartite biocompatibility guidelines for medical products. They are odorless and tasteless, do not support bacteria growth, and will not stain or corrode other materials. Most importantly, silicone rubbers exhibit superior compatibility with human tissue and body fluids.

Chemical Resistance

Silicones resist water and many chemicals, including some acids, oxidizing chemicals, ammonia and isopropyl alcohol. However, silicones should not be used with concentrated acids, alkalines and solvents.