How to Increase the Elasticity of Silicone?
Increase Vinyl Content:
Add an appropriate amount of vinyl to the silicone material or include hydrogen-containing silicone oil in the formula to enhance the overall vinyl content. This helps the silicone achieve an optimal cure point during vulcanization, improving the curing speed and completeness, thereby enhancing elasticity.
Adjust pH Value:
Silicone material with an acidic nature may result in poor rebound elasticity. Adding suitable weak alkaline substances can reduce the acidity of the silicone material, maintaining the pH value in a neutral or slightly alkaline range. This adjustment promotes better elasticity and vulcanization speed.
Optimize the Formula:
Select raw silicone with a narrow molecular weight distribution and certain volatility to improve the demolding rate of the silicone and reduce the amount of plasticizer used. Additionally, treat the surface of fumed silica with alkoxy silane and combine it with hydroxyl silicone oil. Using a two-step method allows for a binding reaction time between the fumed silica molecules and raw rubber molecules, which enhances the rebound elasticity and vulcanization speed of the silicone.