Effect of polydiborosiloxane on the mechanical properties of silicone rubber foam with dual network structure

A silicone rubber foam is prepared by introducing polydiborosiloxane (PDBS) into silicone rubber, and using expandable microspheres as blowing agents. The influences of the dual network structure with dynamic cross-linking network on the silicone rubber foam is characterized by the cell size, mechanical properties and impact resistance. The cell size increases from 77 to 93 [micro]m due to the introduction of a dynamic cross-linking network which reduces foaming resistance. The elongation at break elevates from 277% to 574%, and the yield strength gradually decreases. The dynamic cross-linking network also enhances the internal damping characteristic and energy absorption capacity of the foam. The impact resistance of silicone rubber foam is improved because of the synergistic effect of the dual network structure and the bubble structure. The research improves the performance of silicone rubber foam. KEYWORDS anti-impact, dynamic cross-linking, polydiborosiloxane, silicone rubber Highlights * The dual network structure to improve the mechanical properties. * Excellent cell is obtained using expandable microspheres as foaming agent. * The toughness and elongation are enhanced by regulating the molecular structure. * The dual network structure ameliorates the damping and energy absorption. * Dynamic cross-link and expandable microspheres increase the impact resistance.
1 | INTRODUCTION Silicone rubber as a polymer elastomer is extensively used in various field due to its excellent thermal stability, (1) mechanical property, (2) biocompatibility, and radiation resisting property. [...]