Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) is a type of silicone with biocompatibility. It exists as a two - component liquid that can be pumped into a mold. Subsequently, it undergoes a curing process to transform into a solid.
Chemical Structure
Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) is a two - part system. In it, long polysiloxane chains are strengthened by specially processed silica. Component A has a platinum catalyst, and Component B contains methylhydrogensiloxane which serves as a cross - linker, along with an alcohol inhibitor.
One of the key differences between Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) and High Consistency Rubber (HCR) lies in the "flowable" or "liquid" characteristic of LSR materials. High Consistency Rubber (HCR) can be cured using either a peroxide - based or a platinum - based process. However, Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) cures solely through an additive process with platinum.
Given the thermosetting property of LSR, the injection molding of liquid silicone rubber demands special handling. For example, it requires thorough distributive mixing while keeping the material at a low temperature. Only then is it pushed into the heated cavity where it undergoes vulcanization.
Liquid silicone rubber properties
The advantages of LSR vary according to its application or industrial usage. Firstly, its high biocompatibility allows it to be utilized in parts that have contact with humans, like in the production of organ parts or prostheses. Secondly, LSR is extremely durable, guaranteeing long - term stability and resistance to chemicals. Thirdly, it can withstand a broad temperature range from - 60 °C to +250 °C while constantly maintaining its high - performance mechanical properties. Fourthly, its electrical properties make it a perfect fit for insulation and precise conductivity protection. Lastly, LSR is transparent and can be pigmented to meet all color requirements, including those matching human skin tones.
Liquid - Silicone - Rubber for Medical Devices
Manufacturers of long - term medical implants opt for LSR.
LSR is also regarded as the preferred material in industries such as Automotive or Medical devices. In these sectors, there is a need to produce small and complex elastomeric parts at high speed with maximum productivity. In such scenarios, the Liquid Injection Molding of LSRs proves to be one of the most efficient processes for fabricators.
