A silicone compound consists of a hydrophobic particle, typically silica, that is dispersed in silicone oil. This combination creates a foam control or antifoam agent that finds extensive applications in various fields.
Chemical structure
Silicone oils have a backbone structure composed of a sequence of silicon and oxygen atoms. Each silicon atom is connected to two carbon-based substitution groups, typically methyl groups. The silicone oils possess fluidity as their chains can effortlessly slide and move relative to each other. To create a silicone compound, silica particles are dispersed within the silicone oil
Silicone compounds properties
The performance and usefulness of a silicone compound heavily rely on its composition. Silica plays a vital role in the formulation to achieve the desired level of antifoaming properties. However, a challenge arises in ensuring that the silica is partially hydrophobic but not completely. The defoaming process is initiated when an oil/silica droplet merges with the air-water interface, causing the oil to spread across the liquid-air interface.
This spreading destabilizes the interface, leading to the bursting of bubbles, aided by the microscopic “pin pricks” created by the silica. Silicone antifoam compounds surpass organic defoamers in effectiveness, requiring very low doses due to the lower surface tensions of silicone oils, which allows for better spreading across liquid-air interfaces.
Why use silicone compounds?
Let’s explore the journey of a plastic bottle placed in a recycling bin. Once it reaches a recycling facility, the plastic undergoes several stages of processing, during which foam can pose a significant challenge. For instance, when PET (PolyEthylene Terephthalate) and HDPE (High-Density PolyEthylene) containers like water or milk bottles are recycled, they undergo intense washing processes involving high temperatures and flow rates, which often leads to the formation of substantial amounts of foam. To address this issue, silicone compounds are transformed into antifoam emulsions that effectively counteract foam formation, offering both rapid foam suppression and long-lasting foam control. Moreover, these silicone antifoams are known for their compatibility with various foaming agents.
In addition to their enduring performance at low concentrations (ranging from 1 to 100 mg/kg), silicone antifoams are considered safe due to their chemical inertness. They exhibit superior resistance to heat and chemicals compared to “organic” antifoams. Furthermore, they can be utilized within a broad pH range and comply with regulatory standard
Applications
Silicone compounds find wide application in various industries, serving as antifoam emulsions. Our customers rely on these compounds for multiple industrial purposes, such as textiles, automotive, food processing, pulp and paper manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, water treatment, and more.
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See more: Silicone Fluid