Introduction:
"Why do silicone rubber products turn yellow, harden, or even crack over time? How can you effectively slow down aging and make your products last longer?"—This is a common question from customers who use silicone seals, kitchenware, electronic accessories, and other products. Today, Hongxiangda Silicone Products Factory will explain the causes of silicone aging from a materials science and practical application perspective, along with 5 actionable solutions to help extend the lifespan of your silicone products!
1. Why Does Silicone Rubber Age and Turn Yellow?
Aging is an inevitable process for silicone products, but understanding the causes is key to finding solutions:
UV Exposure: Sunlight breaks down silicone molecular chains, causing surface yellowing and powdering.
High-Temperature Oxidation: Prolonged exposure to heat (e.g., kitchenware, car engine compartments) accelerates oxidation.
Ozone Erosion: Ozone in industrial environments reacts with silicone, leading to cracking.
Chemical Contact: Strong acids, alkalis, or solvents (e.g., alcohol) can degrade silicone.
Mechanical Stress: Frequent bending or friction (e.g., watch straps) increases material fatigue.
▶ Quick Test: Does your silicone product show any of these signs?
Loss of gloss, darkening color
Hardening, reduced elasticity
Fine cracks at the edges
2. 5 Practical Tips to Slow Down Silicone Aging
Tip 1: Choose Anti-Aging Silicone Formulations
UV-Resistant Silicone: Contains UV absorbers (e.g., carbon black) for outdoor use (e.g., solar panel seals).
Peroxide vs. Platinum Cure: Platinum-cured silicone resists yellowing better, ideal for light-colored or transparent products (e.g., medical tubing).
Hongxiangda Suggestion: For extreme conditions, consider AEM (Acrylic Rubber)-reinforced silicone blends.
Tip 2: Avoid Extreme Environments
Temperature Control: While silicone withstands -60°C to 250°C, prolonged exposure above 200°C accelerates aging (e.g., use thicker oven mats).
Chemical Protection: Rinse after contact with oils or cleaners; avoid soaking (e.g., store silicone scrubbers in a dry place).
Tip 3: Enhance Durability with Surface Treatments
Protective Coatings: Nano-coatings reduce UV penetration and stains (e.g., anti-fingerprint phone cases).
Post-Curing: Heat treatment removes surface impurities, improving stability (common for industrial parts).
Tip 4: Regular Cleaning & Maintenance
Cleaning Method: Use mild detergent + soft cloth; avoid steel wool.
Storage Tips: Keep in a dark, dry place; avoid compression (e.g., apply talcum powder to silicone seals to prevent sticking).
Tip 5: Optimize Design to Reduce Stress
Structural Improvements: Rounded edges (e.g., silicone buttons).
Thickness Adjustments: Reinforce high-friction areas (e.g., silicone tube connectors).
3. Hongxiangda’s Solutions: "Anti-Aging" for Your Products
We offer tailored solutions for different industries:
Material-Level Protection: UV-resistant, high-temperature (300°C), and food-grade anti-yellowing silicone.
Process Upgrades: Platinum curing, surface fluorination.
Free Diagnostics: Aging sample testing + customized longevity plans.
▶ Case Study: A European kitchenware brand extended product lifespan from 1 to 3 years outdoors using our UV-resistant silicone + nano-coating.