Silicone oil: a comprehensive analysis from basic knowledge to industrial applications
Silicone oil, as a high-performance organic silicon material, occupies an important position in the industrial field due to its unique chemical structure and physical properties. Its essence is linear polysiloxane, with the main chain composed of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms, and the side chains can introduce different functional groups such as methyl, phenyl, hydrogen, etc., endowing it with diverse properties. For example, methyl silicone oil is known for its excellent insulation and heat resistance, while phenyl silicone oil is widely used in sunscreen cosmetics due to its radiation resistance.
In industrial production, silicone oil is prepared through processes such as hydrolysis, condensation, and polymerization of dimethyl dichlorosilane. Its viscosity range covers extremely dilute liquids to thick semi-solid, which can meet differentiated needs from electronic insulation to high-temperature lubrication. The global silicone oil market presents regional concentration characteristics, with China, North America, and Europe occupying dominant positions. China leads the global hydrogen containing silicone oil field with a market share of 36%, while companies such as Blue Star and Dow continue to expand production capacity through technological innovation.