What is silicone?

Silicone is an inert synthetic compound that come in a variety of forms (oil, rubber, resin). Typically, heat-resistant and rubber-like, they are present in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medical applications, cookware and insulation. Silicone is a polymer that contains silicon, combined with carbon, hydrogen and oxygen and, in some cases, other elements.

The basic structure of silicone is made up of polyorganosiloxanes, where silicon atoms are linked to oxygen to create the "siloxane" bond. The remaining valences of silicon are linked to organic groups, mainly methyl groups (CH3): Phenyl, vinyl or hydrogen.

How silicone is made?

The key is to create chlorosilanes, which are compounds prepared by combining silicon powder and methyl chloride gas through direct synthesis by means of an electrochemical process. The resulting methyl chlorosilanes (trimethyl, dimethyl and methyl chlorosilane) are the building blocks for various silicone substances.

Silicone Properties

Silicone, thanks to its polysiloxane chemistry, offers numerous advantages:

Are you restricted by traditional choices like authentic leather or polyurethane-coated materials? Silicone is revolutionizing the world of materials with a high-performance solution that mirrors the look and feel of leather while offering distinct benefits.

Polyurethane and PVC are no longer the only options for sustainable and innovative material alternatives. Silicone elastomers provide exceptional durability, a modern aesthetic, and a comfortable touch—all while being solvent-free and eco-friendly.

Why Choose Silicone?

Silicone polymers and elastomers excel in demanding applications, offering unparalleled performance in industries such as outdoor furniture, automotive interiors, medical equipment, and sporting goods. These materials are known for their:

• Extreme Durability: Withstand harsh environments while maintaining softness and flexibility.
• Eco-Friendly Composition: Free of phthalates, solvents, and harmful chemicals, ensuring safety and sustainability.
• Process Efficiency: Easy handling allows for optimized manufacturing, reducing material and energy consumption.

Unmatched Performance Features:

• Thermal Stability:
• Operates reliably in temperatures ranging from -80°C to 250°C.
• Resistance to Aging:
• Excellent resistance to oxidation, UV exposure, and natural aging.
• Fire Resistance:
• Emits low smoke and toxic fumes, with self-protective properties and ceramization of ash.
• Low Surface Energy:
• Ensures water repellency and other unique benefits.

Silicone represents the future of high-performance materials, offering a sustainable and innovative solution to meet the demands of modern industries.

Good wetting on many substrates

Hydrophobia (beading effect)
Release or adhesion properties, according to need
Exceptional harmlessness for a wide range of applications
Biocompatibility, well-suited for food contact and medical applications
Safe and comfortable skin contact
Flexible chain of up to -100°C for enhanced lubrication and gas permeability performance
Easy processing, excellent spread and coating capabilities
Available in a variety of forms - fluids, liquid silicone elastomers (LSR) and high-consistency rubbers (HCR)

Functional advantages of Silicones

Environment-friendly
Solventless
UV and aging resistance
Heat and fire resistance
Flexibility remains at high and low temperatures
Good abrasion resistance
Durable adhesion to variety of substrates

An ideal material to be associated with coated textiles, silicone elastomers enable the creation of composites comprised of multiple layers each bringing unique properties essential to the performance feel and look on top of your chosen substrate. Depending on your targeted end use the specific TCS products are carefully chosen and assembled to deliver perfect performance.

Incorporating silicone coated textiles into your design is also about making an eco-responsible choice. Silicones are a durable alternative to conventional plastics that preserves our environment. From water to UV resistance, protecting against heat and fire, eco-friendly, silicones are changing the way you see and create high performance coated textiles.