Compounds of Silicones
Silicones can exist in various forms, and their chemical structure depends on the specific type and intended application. Here are some common compounds and types of silicones:
- Siloxanes: The fundamental components of silicones are siloxanes. They are composed of silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in an alternating pattern, with organic groups (like methyl, ethyl, or phenyl) joined to the silicon atoms. A siloxane’s general formula is R2SiO, where R stands for an organic group.
- Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS): PDMS is one of the most widely used silicone compounds. It is a linear or branched polymer made up of repeating units of dimethylsiloxane (CH3)2SiO.
- Silicone Resins: Silicone resins are three-dimensional networks of siloxane units, forming highly cross-linked structures.
- Silicone Gels: Silicone gels are formed by cross-linking silicone fluids, creating a three-dimensional network with a gel-like consistency.
- High Consistency Silicone Rubber (HCR): HCR is a type of silicone rubber with a high molecular weight, providing a thicker and more solid consistency.
Silicones
Silicones are a diverse family of synthetic polymers made up of Siloxane repeating units. Siloxane is a monomer that consists of silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen atoms. Silicones are colorless and rubber-like substances. They have a wide range of applications due to their unique combination of properties, including flexibility, heat resistance, low toxicity, and water repellency.
In this article, we will learn what are silicones, their sources, structure, formula, preparation, and applications along with their environmental implications.
Table of Content
- What Are Silicones?
- Silicone Formula
- Properties of Silicones
- Preparation of Silicones
- Applications of Silicones
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