Silicon is a hard, durable material that has been used for centuries to create products from various parts of the world. In this blog post, we will explore how silicone is made, including its origin, production methods, and key properties.
(How Is Silicone Made)
Silicon was discovered by French engineer Antoine Lavoirien in 1874, while he was working on his research project in Paris. The material was known as monteronite, which is a fossilized volcanic rock. Lavoirien refined it to make it into a thin, flexible powder, which he called “silicon.”
Silicon manufacturing began in the early 20th century, with companies such asied that the first mass produced silicon was made in the United States in the late 1930s. The process involved melting long lava beds in large factories, collecting the lava from them, and then using the resulting sludge to refine the material further.
One of the most important characteristics of silicone is its ability to bend without breaking. This is because the particles of the material are able to move freely between different parts of the cell, creating unique shapes. Another important property of silicone is its durability, as it can withstand a high temperature and pressure without breaking orening.
Silicon is also highly susceptible to decay, so it must be treated carefully to prevent any loss of its quality. One way to do this is through the use of carbon in-situ treatment (CICT), which involves embedding a small amount of carbon in the material at a specific point before being polished or annealed to reduce its decay rate.
In addition to its physical properties, silicone has several other important uses. For example, it is used in the production of artificial muscles, where it can be patients’ hearts or bones. It is also used in the production of food and chemicals, such as plastics and esters.
(How Is Silicone Made)
Overall, silicone has played an important role in human history and continues to be used today for a wide range of applications. While there are some challenges associated with the production and disposal of silicone, it is also a valuable material that has significant benefits to society.
