Silicones

Abstract

Silicones aie synthetic organic compounds of silicon, constructed of alternate atoms of silicon and oxygen, with organic groups such as methyl or phenyl attached to the silicon atoms. Silicones have unique qualities. They possess a relative constancy of properties over a far wider range of temperatures than any other organic material can withstand: consequently silicone oils, greases, resins and rubbers are used where high or low temperatures, or great variations in temperature, are experienced. Their good electrical properties enable them to be used in electrical insulation; combined with their heat-resistance, this gave them their first application, as a resin varnish binding fibre-glass insulation. The water-repellency and low surface tension of the fluids makes them ideally suited for use as water-repellent agents and mould release agents. All the variety of silicone materials are produced by small variation in the basic structure and the attached organic groups; consequently many more were discovered once the first industrial applications of silicones led to a general study of their nature.