Silicon Emulsion
Silicon Emulsion is a stable, water-based emulsion of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or other silicone fluids, commonly used for lubrication, gloss enhancement, release, water repellency, and surface conditioning. It appears as a milky-white, viscous liquid and is non-toxic, non-flammable, and easy to handle. Due to its excellent spreadability and low surface tension, it is widely used in industries ranging from automotive and textiles to agriculture, construction, and cosmetics.
Uses
Primary Uses
Textile Industry
- Used as a softening agent for fabrics and yarns, imparting smoothness and a silky finish.
- Enhances wrinkle resistance and reduces static cling in synthetic fibers.
- Improves fabric lubrication during weaving and knitting processes.
Automotive Industry
- Used as a dashboard and tire dressing for gloss enhancement and UV protection.
- Functions as a lubricant and protectant for rubber, vinyl, and plastic components.
- Used in car polishes and detailing sprays for shine and water resistance.
Plastic & Rubber Processing
- Serves as a mold release agent in plastic and rubber molding operations.
- Provides surface gloss and anti-stick properties in rubber sheet manufacturing.
- Acts as a processing aid to improve flow and prevent material adhesion.
Construction & Building Materials
- Used in concrete formwork as a release agent to prevent sticking and reduce surface defects.
- Provides water repellency in construction materials like bricks, tiles, and cementitious substrates.
- Used in coatings and sealants to enhance durability and water resistance.
Personal Care & Cosmetics
- Included in hair care products for smoothness, detangling, and shine enhancement.
- Used in skin creams and lotions for conditioning and spreadability.
- Functions as a non-greasy emollient in sunscreens, serums, and shaving products.
Furniture & Wood Polish
- Used in polishes for wood, leather, and synthetic furniture for shine and dust repellence.
- Protects surfaces from watermarks and minor abrasions.
Secondary Uses
Agriculture
- Acts as a spray adjuvant to improve the spread and absorption of agrochemicals on plant surfaces.
- Used to reduce surface tension and improve pesticide efficacy.
Paper & Packaging Industry
- Provides anti-blocking and anti-stick properties to packaging films and paper.
- Used in release coatings for label backings and adhesive tapes.
Leather Processing
- Imparts softness, gloss, and water repellency to finished leather goods.
Metalworking
- Used as a lubricant and anti-corrosion coating in light-duty metal forming operations.
Printing Industry
- Applied as a release and anti-foaming agent in ink formulations and printing machinery.
Household & Industrial Cleaning Products
Added to surface cleaners and polishes for shine enhancement and protective coating.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Polydimethylsiloxane emulsion (composition may vary)
- Common/Trade Name: Silicon Emulsion
- CAS Number: Varies (e.g., 63148-62-9 for PDMS)
- HS Code: 3910.00.00
- Synonyms: Silicone fluid emulsion, PDMS emulsion, Silicone oil in water
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Milky liquid emulsion
- Color & Odor: White or off-white; slight odor
- Solubility: Dispersible in water
- pH: Typically 6–8
- Viscosity: Varies (typically 100–1000 cSt based on formulation)
- Solid Content: Typically 20%–60% silicone
- Stability: Stable under normal temperature and storage conditions
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous (varies by formulation)
- Toxicity: Low; generally considered non-toxic and non-sensitizing
- Exposure Limits: No specific occupational exposure limits under normal use
- Inhalation of aerosols should be avoided
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry conditions away from direct sunlight and freezing temperatures
- Container Type: Supplied in plastic drums, pails, or IBCs (typically 25kg, 50kg, 200kg)
- Shelf Life: Typically 6–12 months if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Avoid contact with eyes; do not freeze; agitate gently before use
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with relevant industrial and cosmetic safety standards (e.g., REACH, RoHS, FDA-approved grades available for indirect food contact)
- May meet NSF standards for incidental food contact in some formulations
- Manufactured under ISO or GMP conditions depending on intended use
- VOC compliant where applicable in coatings and automotive uses
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Poor in natural environments (depends on silicone polymer type)
- Ecotoxicity: Generally low; avoid release into aquatic environments
- Bioaccumulation: Low potential
Environmental Impact: Minimal when used and disposed of properly; non-ozone depleting
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Safety goggles, gloves, and protective clothing recommended
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid prolonged inhalation or contact with eyes
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and stored in a dry environment
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical advice if respiratory symptoms occur
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek help if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse with clean water for 15 minutes; get medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; do not induce vomiting; seek medical assistance
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Generally non-flammable; may burn at high temperatures
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂
- Special Precautions: Use self-contained breathing apparatus if burning silicone residue is present
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Silicon oxides, carbon oxides, and formaldehyde (if overheated)