Can silicone be used in high temperatures or extreme environments?

Silicone is a high-performance polymer elastic material, whose main chain is composed of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms, and the side chains are carbon hydrogen or substituted carbon hydrogen organic groups connected to the silicon atoms. This special molecular structure endows silicone with a series of unique properties, including excellent high and low temperature resistance, oxidation resistance, radiation resistance, as well as good elasticity and flexibility. These properties make silicone widely used in various fields, including but not limited to the automotive industry, electronic and electrical industry, medical field, daily necessities, etc.

Regarding the high and low temperature resistance of silicone, it can usually be used for a long time in the temperature range of -100 ℃ to+300 ℃, and under extreme conditions, it can be used for a short time in the range of -60 ℃ to+350 ℃. This means that in most cases, silicone products can withstand the test of high temperature environments. Especially for certain special formulations of silicone, such as high-temperature resistant silicone, their high-temperature resistance can reach around 350 ℃ or even higher. These special silicone materials are usually used in situations where they need to work for long periods of time at high temperatures, such as seals in car engine compartments, baking molds in ovens, etc.

However, although silicone has excellent high-temperature resistance, it does not mean that it can be used without any concerns in any high-temperature environment. Long term exposure to high temperatures may cause physical or chemical changes in silicone materials, such as softening, sticking, discoloration, and even decomposition. In addition, the performance of silicone at high temperatures is also affected by other factors such as pressure, humidity, and light. Therefore, when using silicone products, it is necessary to choose the appropriate type and specification of silicone according to the specific usage environment and conditions, and pay attention to changes in the usage environment as well as regular inspection and maintenance.

Overall, the use of silicone in high temperature or extreme environments is feasible, but it needs to be selected and used according to specific circumstances.