When people hear "silicone," many think of kitchen heat-resistant mats and phone cases, but few know that a "hidden helper" lies hidden in the fabrics and electronic products we encounter daily—addition-type screen-printed liquid silicone. Unlike regular silicone, which has a fixed form, it exists as a two-component, transparent liquid, yet its unique properties allow it to play a crucial role in multiple fields.
From a fundamental perspective, the most surprising advantage of this silicone is its "low shrinkage." Ordinary coating materials often shrink in volume during the curing process due to the release of low-molecular-weight substances, leading to cracking and peeling. However, addition-type screen printing liquid silicone does not release any low-molecular-weight components during the cross-linking reaction, and its shrinkage rate can be controlled to below 0.1%. This means that after being printed on fabric, it can maintain its original shape, without pattern deformation due to shrinkage, and it will not detach from the fabric, laying a stable foundation for subsequent use.
In everyday life, its presence is actually ubiquitous. The prints on your cotton T-shirts that don't fade or peel off even after repeated washing are probably printed with it; the non-slip tablecloths at home can firmly grip the table without slipping thanks to its excellent anti-slip properties; even the tent fabric used for outdoor camping and the fabric of umbrellas used in the rain are waterproof and resistant to aging thanks to it.What's even more remarkable is its exceptional compatibility with various fabrics. Whether it's soft silk and wool, durable nylon and polyester-cotton blends, or even high-temperature resistant and insulating industrial fabrics, it adapts perfectly without staining the material or compromising its feel.
Beyond fabric coatings, its performance in industrial applications is equally impressive. In the electronics industry, many electronic components require potting or coating to isolate moisture and protect their internal structures. This silicone, with its high transparency and high tensile strength, has become an ideal choice. After potting, it clearly displays the component's appearance, facilitating subsequent inspection, while also providing tear and abrasion resistance, offering long-term protection for electronic components. When coated on the component surface, it also acts as insulation, further enhancing product safety.
Furthermore, its "practicality" is also reflected in the details. Its low hardness means that it won't feel stiff when printed on fabrics and won't feel uncomfortable against the skin; its strong adhesive bonding advantage allows it to be used in woven labels, decorative ribbons, and other products, ensuring that the pattern remains clear for a long time; and its resistance to high and low temperatures allows it to adapt to different environments—it won't crack at sub-zero temperatures or melt and deform at high temperatures, functioning stably whether in the cold winter of the north or the sweltering heat of the south.
This seemingly "unremarkable" liquid silicone has already become integrated into our lives and production, providing reliable support for fabric upgrades and electronic protection with its numerous advantages. As the requirements for material performance continue to increase, it is believed that it will shine in even more fields and become a "powerful assistant" for more industries.
