Silicone oil
[CAS# 63148-62-9]

Identification

• Classification: Food additive >> Defoamer
• Name: Silicone oil
• Synonyms: Poly(dimethylsiloxane)
• Molecular Formula: [Si(CH₃)_2O]_n
• CAS Registry Number: 63148-62-9
• EC Number: 687-578-3
• SMILES: C[Si](C)(C)O*

Properties

• Density: 0.963
• Melting point: -50 °C
• Refractive index: 1.403-1.406
• Flash point: 300 °C
• Water solubility: PRACTICALLY INSOLUBLE

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS02;GHS09 Warning
• Risk Statements: H226-H410-H413
• Safety Statements: P210-P233-P240-P241-P242-P243-P273-P280-P303+P361+P353-P370+P378-P391-P403+P235-P501

Discovery and Applications

Silicone fluids are a versatile class of synthetic polymers used in a wide variety of industrial, medical, and consumer products. Silicone fluids belong to a class of silicon-based polymers known for their unique chemical structure and properties. They were first synthesized in the early 20th century by Dr. Frederick Stanley Kipping, an English chemist who pioneered the study of organosilicon compounds. Kipping's work laid the foundation for the development of silicone polymers, including silicone fluids.

Silicone fluids are typically produced by the polymerization of siloxane monomers, which are derived from silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in alternating silicon-oxygen bonds (Si-O). The chemical synthesis involves hydrolysis and condensation reactions of chlorosilanes or alkoxysilanes, producing linear or branched organosilicon polymers with varying chain lengths and viscosities.

Silicone fluids have a variety of unique chemical and physical properties: They can withstand extreme temperatures from -50°C to 200°C, making them suitable for applications in both hot and cold environments. Silicone fluids have low surface tension, which imparts excellent spreading and wetting properties on surfaces, making them ideal for lubrication and mold release applications. They are highly inert and resistant to oxidation, moisture, and chemicals, which helps them remain stable and durable over time in harsh environments. Silicone fluids are available in a variety of viscosities, from low-viscosity fluids to high-viscosity glues, for customized applications in different industries.

Silicone fluids are used in a wide range of industrial applications: Due to their high lubricity and thermal stability, silicone fluids are used as lubricants in mechanical systems, hydraulic fluids in aerospace applications, and damping fluids in shock absorbers. They are used as heat transfer fluids in thermal management systems, such as cooling systems for electronic devices and solar collectors. Silicone fluids act as effective release agents during plastic and rubber molding processes, preventing molded parts from sticking to the mold and facilitating demolding.

Silicone fluids are used as lubricants in medical devices such as catheters and syringes because of their biocompatibility and non-irritating properties. They are ingredients in cosmetics and skin care products, acting as emollients and conditioners to smooth the skin and hair and retain moisture.

Silicone fluids are a key ingredient in furniture polishes, automotive polishes, and sealants, providing shine, waterproofing, and protection to surfaces. They are used in textile treatments to make fabrics waterproof and soft without affecting breathability.

Silicone fluids are generally considered environmentally benign due to their inertness and low toxicity. They do not contribute to ozone depletion and, if handled properly, have minimal impact on aquatic ecosystems. Ongoing research focuses on developing sustainable silicone fluid formulations and exploring new applications for emerging technologies, such as renewable energy systems and biodegradable polymers. Advances in silicone chemistry aim to improve performance characteristics while reducing environmental footprint.

References

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