What is the difference between rubber and silicone ?

Rubber and silicon are both polymers, but they have several key differences in their composition and properties.

Rubber, also known as natural rubber or latex, is a polymer made from the sap of rubber trees. It is a type of elastomer, which means it has the ability to stretch and return to its original shape. Rubber is composed of long chains of polyisoprene molecules, which are linked together by chemical bonds. It is a good electrical insulator and has good abrasion resistance, but it is not resistant to heat, ozone, and chemicals.

Silicone, on the other hand, is a synthetic polymer made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. It is also an elastomer and has similar properties as rubber but with some differences. Silicone is composed of long chains of siloxane molecules, which are linked together by chemical bonds. It is resistant to heat, ozone, and chemicals, and it has good electrical insulation properties. Silicone is also commonly used in the medical and food industry due to its chemical resistance and biocompatibility.

When it comes to formulation, rubber is typically made into a vulcanized form, which is a process that crosslinks the rubber molecules to make it stronger and more durable. On the other hand, silicone can be formulated in a variety of ways, such as in liquid form, gel form, or as a solid rubber. It can also be mixed with other materials to create different properties, such as silicone rubber with added fillers for improved strength and durability.

In summary, rubber and silicone are both elastomers but they have different composition and properties. Rubber is natural and made from sap of rubber tree and silicone is synthetic. Rubber is typically vulcanized, silicone can be formulated in different forms and mixed with other materials to create different properties.