How to optimize the silicone screen printing and curing process to improve adhesion
Thin coating for priming, layered printing:
Avoid thick coating of silicone at one time (thick layers are prone to fall off due to internal stress). You can first print a thin layer of primer (silicone + more accelerator), pre-cured at low temperature (80-100℃, 1-2 minutes), and then print the pattern layer by layer after forming a solid bottom layer. The thickness of each layer is controlled at 0.1-0.2mm, and the edge is lightly ground after each layer is cured (to enhance the bonding between layers).
Precisely control the curing parameters:
Insufficient curing will lead to insufficient cross-linking of silicone and reduced adhesion; over-curing may make silicone brittle.
Temperature: Set according to the ink instructions (usually 150-180℃). Smooth fabrics may have poor thermal conductivity. The curing time can be appropriately extended (such as from 3 minutes to 5 minutes) to ensure that the silicone is completely cross-linked.
Pressure assistance: For flat and smooth fabrics, slight pressure can be applied during the curing process (such as light pressure with a high-temperature resistant pressure roller) to promote close contact between the silicone and the fabric surface.
Avoid stress concentration at the edge of printing: The edge of the pattern is the most likely part to fall off. When designing, you can make an arc transition on the edge (avoid right angles), or print 1-2 more layers of thin glue on the edge to enhance edge adhesion.
