Silicone Fluids

Posted on 15 january 2026

Silicone Fluid

Silicones are a family of inorganic polymers with Si – O – Si linkage, commonly known as poly(siloxanes). Most petroleum polymers have carbon atoms joined together forming polymeric chain while silicones have silicon atoms joined together with oxygen in between. It covers wide range of products with variety in its applications. One can notice difference between Silicon and Silicones, as Silicon is a most common element in the earth’s crust and Silicones are synthesized inorganic polymers made out of it.

Silicone fluids are generally colorless transparent liquids. They exhibit excellent resistance to heat, cold, and moisture. There is little viscosity change over wide temperature range and they have outstanding electrical properties. They are notable for characteristics of mold-releasability, water repellency, lubricity, and defoaming properties.

Chemical structure of poly(dimethyl siloxane) [Silicone Fluid]

Features of Silicone Fluid

Silicones are available in wide range of properties from volatile liquids to soft gels, hard materials. They provide solutions to ordinary and extraordinary problems. They make material stronger, more stable, more resilient, aesthetically pleasing, easier to use and longer lasting.

This is mainly due to thermal & oxidative stability, mild dependence of physical properties on temperature, high chemical inertness, resistance to weathering, good dielectric strength and low surface tension.

Silicones have following physical and chemical characteristics

• Outstanding weathering and aging resistance
• Thermostability
• High water repellency
• Extremely strong adhesion qualities
• Can withstand long-term exposure to the atmosphere
• Resistance to UV & IR radiation
• Extremely low volatility
• Inert (non-reactive with most materials)
• Chemical resistance
• Long-term elasticity, pliability and flexibility
• Excellent electrical insulation
• Tensile strength
• Anti-foaming properties
• Microbial resistance

Uses for Silicone Fluids

• Additive for cosmetics, personal care, health care products & pharmaceuticals
• Lubricating oil for various mechanical parts
• Additive and release agent in resins, elastomers, rubbers & polymers
• Shinning agent for automobile, furniture polish & textile finish
• Industrial cleaners, release agents for industrial products
• In cooking oil as deep frying
• Paint, coating component

This entry was posted in Silicone Fluid