Silicones may be obtained in the form of oils, rubber on resins depending upon the extent of polymerization which depends upon reaction conditions and nature of alkyl groups.
Properties and Uses of Silicones: Silicones are water repellent and quite inert chemically. These resist oxidation, thermal decomposition and attack by organic reagents. These are also good electrical insulators and antifoaming agents. These have found the following uses:
(a) Silicones have been used for making water-proof papers, wools, textiles, wood etc., after coating these articles with silicones.
(b) The viscosities of silicones do not change with changes in temperature; therefore, these are used as all weather lubricants.
(c) As antifoaming agent in industrial processes.
(d) As a mould releasing agent in rubber industry and foundry. It avoids the sticking of the castings to the mould.
(e) For making body implants in cosmetic surgery due to its inert nature.
(f) Silicones are now incorporated in paints for resisting dampness and for water proofing.
(g) Due to their water repellent nature and high dielectric constant, silicones are used in electrical condensers. |
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