Why Do Black Elastic Cords Cause Incomplete Curing of Silicone?
When black elastic cords come into contact with silicone, incomplete curing may occur due to the following reasons:
1. Migration of Vulcanizing Agents
Vulcanizing agents in elastic cords: Black elastic cords typically contain sulfur or other vulcanizing agents, which can migrate into the silicone and interfere with its curing process.
Chemical reaction: The vulcanizing agents may react with the platinum catalyst in silicone, deactivating it and preventing proper curing.
2. Plasticizers and Additives
Plasticizer migration: Plasticizers from the elastic cord may leach into the silicone, negatively affecting its curing properties.
Other additives: Additional substances in the elastic cord, such as anti-aging agents and fillers, may also disrupt silicone curing.
3. Surface Contamination
Surface treatments on elastic cords: During manufacturing, elastic cords may undergo surface treatments, leaving behind chemical residues that contaminate the silicone and inhibit proper curing.
Incomplete cleaning: If the elastic cord is not properly cleaned, residual contaminants may interfere with silicone curing.
4. Material Incompatibility
Chemical incompatibility: The chemical properties of the elastic cord and silicone may be inherently incompatible, leading to adverse reactions that hinder the curing process.
Solutions to Prevent Curing Inhibition
Use a barrier layer: Apply a separation layer (e.g., Teflon coating) between the elastic cord and silicone to prevent the migration of vulcanizing agents and plasticizers.
Select compatible materials: Choose elastic cords that are more compatible with silicone and free from components that interfere with curing.
Surface treatment: Thoroughly clean and treat the elastic cord surface to remove contaminants that may affect silicone curing.
Optimize silicone formulation: Modify the silicone formula by using poisoning-resistant catalysts or additives to improve resistance to curing interference.
By implementing these measures, the risk of incomplete curing when black elastic cords come into contact with silicone can be effectively minimized.