Closed-cell silicone sponges are highly favored materials in manufacturing, food processing, pharmaceutical, and medical industries. They come in different grades, densities, and thicknesses to suit the requirements of users. In this piece, we’re looking specifically at silicone sponge sheets and how they can be used in your home improvement projects.
Commercially produced silicone sponge products are commonly manufactured using gum-based polydimethylsiloxane (PMDS), which is the most popular silicone-based organic polymer because of its non-flammable and non-toxic properties. Note that the processing of every closed-cell silicone sponge sheet is controlled to ensure consistent flatness and smooth-quality finish.
Open Cell Versus Closed Cell Silicone Sponge Sheet
Open-cell silicone sponges have cells that are connected to other cells and not fully enclosed, which is why outside elements such as dust and moisture can readily penetrate them. Open-cell silicone sponges behave similarly to the usual sponges used for cleaning.
If you place them in a bucket of water, you will notice that they soak up much of the water. This absorbing action happens because the cells are open, thereby allowing water to pass through and get retained inside the sponge.
Closed-cell silicone sponges, on the other hand, have individual closed cells that trap air inside. These cells are not connected to other cells, which is why water, dirt, and other external elements cannot readily enter the cells. Considering how it keeps dust and moisture out, closed-cell silicone sponges have numerous commercial applications.
Features of Closed Cell Silicone Sponge Sheet
A closed-cell silicone sponge sheet is exceptionally versatile and is a highly-in-demand engineering material. It has outstanding features and qualities that are very different from metals and plastics, such as the following:
Extreme Temperature Resistance
Silicone can withstand extreme temperatures from as low as about -100oF (-70oC) to as high as around 500oF (260oC). Given the thermal stability of a silicon sponge, it can be used in environments with sub-zero or extremely high temperatures without changing its physical and chemical properties.
Excellent Environment-resistant Properties
Apart from its ability to hold up despite exposure to extreme temperatures, a closed-cell silicone sponge can also resist environmental elements from ozone and UV rays to water, mildew, and bacteria.
Outstanding Compression Set Resistance
Closed-cell silicone sponges can readily return to their original shape after being temporarily deformed because of their excellent compression set resistance properties. This material can withstand stretching, compression, and other types of deformation without ruining the natural shape.
Exceptional Acoustic, Electrical, and Thermal Insulation
Given its closed-cell structure, a closed-cell silicone sponge acts as an insulation against noise, vibrations, electricity, and heat.
Uses of Closed-Cell Silicone Sponge Sheets
Due to the beneficial qualities of closed-cell silicone sponge sheets, this material has a wide variety of applications, which include the following:
- High-Performance Sealant – Due to its ability to withstand extreme temperatures and the penetration of environmental elements, silicone sponge sheets are commonly used for sealing different types of surfaces.
- Protection Against Noise and Vibration – Silicone sponge sheets are also used to prevent the penetration of noise and vibrations coming from large engines. Businesses in rail and marine transportation industries install sponge sheets on the walls and flooring of their units to keep the unbearable sound and rattle of large engines out.
- Thermal Management – Because of its efficient temperature-insulating properties, this material is popular among industries that require proficient temperature management like the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), and oil and gas sectors.
Silicone sponge sheets are valuable engineering materials because of their exceptional qualities. If your business is looking for high-quality sponge sheets, you should only rely on reputable suppliers of silicone products. While many distributors are offering this versatile material, only companies in good standing can provide you with the right sponge sheets for your requirements.
