What’s the difference between Silicon and Silicone?
14 March 2024
Here’s a few Facts about ‘Silicon’
Silicon is a chemical element with the symbol Si and atomic number 14.It is a hard and brittle crystalline solid with a blue-grey metallic lustre and is a tetravalent metalloid and semiconductor.
More than 90% of the Earth’s crust is composed of silicate minerals, making silicon the second most abundant element in the Earth’s crust (about 28% by mass) after oxygen.
Its melting and boiling points of 1414 °C and 3265 °C respectively are the second-highest among all the metalloids and nonmetals, being only surpassed by boron.
Silicon is the eighth most common element in the universe by mass.
Silicon and Silicates are widely used in Industrial Construction materials, Ceramics, Glass, Electronics, Steel Refining, Aluminium and Chemical Industries.
It was the dominant material of the ‘Silicon Age’ (the late 20th century to early 21st century) – being an important element in high-technology semiconductor devices.
Silicon is the basis of widely used synthetic polymers called Silicones – such as the specialised elastomer Sheetings and manufactured Components J-Flex supply to many industries around the world in demanding applications.
A few Facts about ‘Silicone’ (rubber)
Silicone rubber is an elastomer (rubber-like material) composed of silicone (which itself is a polymer).
Silicone contains ‘silicon’, together with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Silicone rubbers are widely used in industry, and there are multiple formulations and speciality types.
Silicone rubbers are often one or two-part polymers, and may contain fillers to improve properties or reduce cost.
Silicone rubber is generally non-reactive, stable, and resistant to extreme environments and temperatures from −55 to 300 °C (−67 to 572 °F) while still maintaining its useful properties.
Due to its properties and ease of manufacturing and shaping, silicone rubber can be found in a vast variety of products and applications.
Silicone rubber sheetings and custom rubber components are exported by J-Flex to over 55 countries, satisfying many demanding criteria in these Markets.
Need further information about Silicone Sheetings and Components?
Get in touch with us. Having been operating in the rubber industry for over 35 years, we are considered by many as ‘the rubber experts’ and market leaders. We’re here to help and advise on the best solutions for your needs.
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- 08/03/2024 - Your 10 point checklist to help identify the best rubber solution for your requirements
- 07/03/2024 - What is Synthetic Rubber?
- 06/03/2024 - Silicone Rubber: A Versatile Elastomer in Industry
- 06/03/2024 - Rubber Products suitable for Food & Drink Environments
