Abstract
Silicones are used in an increasing variety of industrial textiles. The choice of a silicone fabric coating over a traditional organic coating material is generally driven by specific performance requirements For example, silicone rubber coatings are the materials ofchoice in very low temperature applications because they remain flexible at temperatures as low as -85°C. Silicones combine excellent heat and cold resistance with good weathering perfor mance, UV light stability, water repellency, good electrical properties, and flame retardance. Solventless processing may often be performed, silicone systems are available that can be proc essed with knife coating, dip coating, extrusion coating, calendering, and spray coating equip ment This paper will discuss the basic properties of silicone resin and rubber products, and compare their performance with several organic coaring materials. Some interesting niche ap plications for silicone-coated textiles include architectural fabrics, panel heaters, parachutes, and nonslip coatings.
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