Do you know the types and properties of silicon dioxide?
2022-02-19
Types and Properties of Silicon Dioxide
The reinforcing fillers used in silicone rubber are primarily synthetic silica, also known as precipitated silica. Precipitated silica is classified into gas-phase silica and precipitated silica.
a. Fumed silica
The size, specific surface area, surface properties, and structure of silica particles are influenced by factors such as the ratio of precursor gases, the combustion rate, and the residence time of the SiO2 nuclei in the combustion chamber.
The finer the particles of gas-phase fumed silica, the larger its specific surface area, and the better its reinforcing effect; however, its processability deteriorates. Conversely, coarser particles with a smaller specific surface area yield poorer reinforcement but improved processability.
Fumed silica is one of the most commonly used reinforcing agents for silicone rubber; compounds reinforced with it exhibit high mechanical strength and excellent electrical properties. Fumed silica can also be blended with other reinforcing fillers or weakly reinforcing agents to produce elastomers tailored to specific application requirements.
b. Precipitated silica
The properties of precipitated silica are influenced by precipitation conditions such as acidity and temperature.
Compared with silicone rubber compounds reinforced with fumed silica, those reinforced with precipitated silica exhibit slightly lower mechanical strength and poorer dielectric properties—particularly after exposure to moisture—while offering superior resistance to thermal aging. Moreover, the cost of the compounded rubber is considerably lower. When the mechanical strength requirements for the final product are not stringent, precipitated silica may be used alone or in combination with fumed silica.
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