What are silicones - VMQ?

Originating from silicon chemistry, silicones – VMQ are a group of elastomeric materials made from silicone, oxygen, hydrogen and carbon. We often use the term silicone rubber or the English acronym VMQ for Vinyl Methyl Silicone. These elastomers can be easily colored.

Silicones – A wide operating temperature range

Extreme temperature range and low temperature flexibility are the characteristics of silicones – VMQ. Indeed, silicones are the elastomers which have the widest temperature range of use (-50/+200°C) and resist extreme temperatures well. They also have good dielectric properties. In addition, silicones are physiologically inert, which makes it possible to consider their use in food or medical applications.

However, silicones have poor compatibility with oils and chemicals. Their permeability is high and they have low tensile, tear and abrasion resistance.

Summary of silicone properties - VMQ

Advantages

  • Electrical insulator
  • Very permeable
  • Good behavior under compression
  • Good dynamic behavior
  • Operating temperature: -50°C to +200°C

Disadvantages

  • Average resistance to mineral oils and chemicals
  • Limited mechanical properties

Silicone – VMQ approvals

  • NFL 17-250-2
  • NFL 17-250-3
  • NFL 17-250-4
  • FDA
  • CE1935/2004
  • USP classe VI
  • ISO 10993
  • UL 94 HB
  • EN45 545

Silicone - VMQ applications

Silicones – VMQ are mainly used in the food industry and in medical devices, particularly in the manufacture of aseptic seals and molding mixtures.

They are used in ultra-low temperature applications or to create automotive components and coatings for airbags, as well as in adhesives and sealants for ships.

Silicone - VMQ brands

Silicone – VMQ is also known under several brands, including the following:

  • Silastic®
  • RBB Xiameter®
  • Silplus®
  • Silicone®
  • Silopren®
  • Bluesil®
  • Elastosil®