Grant: Collaborative Research and Development Grants

Silicone polymers are used in a number of applications globally, as sealants, lubricants, coatings, etc. However, those silicones that are used for applications outside are subjected to a number of harsh environmental factors such as UV radiation, moisture, salts, and abrasives. Of particular interest is the capacity of the silicone polymers to repel water over time. This property has been shown to be affected by the neutralizing agent used to remove the polymer initiator from the reaction vessel, and ultimately the final silicone product.As a result we are proposing to study the long-term stability of silicones and comparing the affect(s) that different neutralizing compounds have on the decomposition of the silicone polymers being manufactured by CSL Silicones, Inc. A key component of this study will be understanding the decomposition process, its rate, and the affiliated compounds that form as the silicone breaks down.