How fillers are added to silicon fluids?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the methods of incorporating fillers into silicon fluids, specifically focusing on the types of fillers used and the processes involved in achieving a uniform mixture. The scope includes technical explanations and practical considerations related to the mixing of powders with silicon products.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that fillers like silica and carbon black are added to silicon products to modify their properties.
  • One participant describes the process of mulling, where powders are ground into liquids to achieve a mixture.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential settling of powders in silicon fluids and whether a minimum shear power is required for proper mixing.
  • Another participant suggests that the type of silicon polymer affects the mixing process, mentioning that gels or thick fluids can hold suspensions better than thinner fluids.
  • Factors such as the polarities of the added materials and their attraction to silicon are discussed as influencing the mixing process.
  • One participant references the use of intermediary chemicals in paint that help bind pigments to oils, suggesting a parallel to the mixing of fillers in silicon fluids.
  • Participants express uncertainty about the term "mulling" and its relevance to the topic, with one seeking clarification on the spelling and context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the specifics of the mixing process, and multiple viewpoints regarding the effectiveness and methods of incorporating fillers remain present.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the assumptions about the types of silicon polymers and the specific conditions required for effective mixing, which are not fully resolved in the discussion.

amrmohammed
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Some silicon products (like silicon greases) have different types of fillers added to it (like silica and carbon black) to give it certain properties. How these fillers are added/combined/"dissolved" to the silicon fluid?
 
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Liquids are mixed with liquids, powders are often ground in, a process called mulling.
 
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wouldn't the powder settle down after a period of time if it were just mixed with the silicone? are there some kind of minimum shear power to fully mix the components to one mixture, or can I do it at home like mixing water and salts?
 
It depends on what kind of silicon polymer you have. Usually they are gels or thick fluids which will hold onto suspensions. If it is a fluid it is a complicated but not too difficult subject. It depends on such things as the polarities of what you are adding and whether they are attracted to the silicon - but on several other factors as well. With paint for example there are modified oils that mix with water, furthermore there are intermediary chemicals (I forget the name) which will bind on to the pigment with one end of the molecule and to the oils with the other. Do look up mulling btw!
 
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Thank you Puma
I tried searching "mulling" and "silicone mulling" but the results were not related to the topic. Are you sure of the spelling?
 
Yes its right! You'll have to look up mulling paint I guess to get good info. But anyhow basically all you need to know is that powders have to be really finely ground into the carrying medium to disperse it evenly eg by hand with paint this equates to a flat stone, oil, pigment and another flat stone. Sorry to make a meal of this simple process!
 
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