Rubber bands are items that we often use every day, but have you ever wondered what they are made of? Although most people think of rubber bands as being purely rubber, they can actually be made from a variety of materials, including silicone. In this article, we will look at the materials used in rubber bands, with a special focus on silicone, and we will also learn why and when silicone is used.
Most rubber bands found in everyday life are made from natural rubber, which is derived from the latex sap of rubber trees. This natural rubber is very elastic, making it ideal for making elastic bands that hold things together securely.
Natural rubber bands are widely used because they are cost-effective and have excellent elasticity and resilience. However, they also have some limitations, such as:
Temperature sensitivity: Natural rubber bands become brittle and lose elasticity in cold weather and deteriorate in hot temperatures or sunlight.
Allergy risk: Some people are allergic to latex, a component of natural rubber, so traditional rubber bands are not suitable for everyone.
Silicone rubber ribs are a more recent development and are made from silicone, a synthetic material known for its strength and flexibility. Silicone is a polymer that combines silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. It has a unique set of properties that make it an ideal material for making rubber bands.
Why use glue to make rubber bands?
High temperature resistance: One of the main advantages of silicone is its resistance to extreme temperatures. Silicone rubber ribs remain flexible and strong in both hot and cold temperatures.
Hypoallergenic: Unlike natural rubber, silicone is hypoallergenic.
Durability: Silicone is highly resistant to abrasion, UV rays and chemicals, so silicone rubber ribs last longer and remain flexible over time. They are unlikely to degrade or break even with regular use.
Medical and laboratory use: Silicone rubber bands are commonly used in medical and laboratory settings due to their hypoallergenic and high temperature resistant properties.
Outdoor and extreme condtions: The durability, UV resistance and heat resistance of silicone rods make silicone rods ideal for outdoor use, such as gardening or camping.
Food Preparation and Storage: Silicone is food safe, so silicone rubber bands are sometimes used for food preparation or to secure food containers.
Baby Products and Toys: Silicone is also used as a material for baby toys as it is safe, non-toxic and soft, such as teethers, baby toys, baby food sets, etc.
With this article, you now know the differences between rubber products and silicone products, as well as their advantages and disadvantages, and the various areas in which they can be used.
