How to prevent oxidation of silicone products?

How to prevent oxidation of silicone products? Silicone products have become an indispensable material in daily life and industrial production due to their environmental friendliness, high temperature resistance, softness, and durability. However, problems such as yellowing and hardening caused by oxidation have been a headache for many users. From oxidation principles, preventive measures, daily maintenance to purchasing skills, we provide comprehensive knowledge of silicone products to help you easily extend product life.

Silica gel oxidation is the result of long-term interaction between materials and the external environment, mainly influenced by the following factors:
Ultraviolet attack: Ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight can damage the molecular chains of silica gel, triggering oxidation reactions and generating yellowish substances. For example, phone cases and outdoor items that are left by the window for a long time are often more prone to oxidation.
Oxidation and pollution: Acidic substances in sweat and cosmetics penetrate the pores of silicone gel, accelerating oxidation; Ozone in the air and free radicals in car exhaust can also directly erode the surface of materials.
Material defects: Cheap silicone may contain unstable additives such as sulfides and plasticizers, which can easily decompose and turn yellow; Incomplete vulcanization leads to loose molecular structure and poor anti-aging ability.
Extreme environment: High temperature, humidity, or long-term exposure to chemicals can accelerate the breakage of silicone molecular chains, leading to a decrease in performance.

Four Steps to Anti Oxidation: From Selection to Daily Care
1. "Polish your eyes" when making a purchase
Priority should be given to high transparency raw materials: high-quality silicone raw materials (such as inlet gas phase silicone) have more stable molecular structures and stronger resistance to yellowing.
Pay attention to vulcanization process: vulcanization temperature and time directly affect product performance. Excessive mold temperature or insufficient vulcanization can easily cause molecular chain breakage and accelerate oxidation.
Avoid the low price trap: Low priced silicone products may use recycled materials or inferior additives, which pose a higher risk of oxidation.

2. Storage environment: "Three Avoidances and Three Requirements"
Avoid light: Store silicone products in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight or ultraviolet radiation.
Avoid moisture: Maintain ventilation, stay away from damp environments, and prevent mold and deformation.
Avoid chemical substances: Avoid contact with strong acids, bases, solvents, etc. to prevent corrosion.
To seal: When not in use for a long time, seal with a dark sealed bag to reduce contact with oxygen.
To isolate: Store separately from other items to prevent contamination or impact.
Temperature control: The storage temperature should be controlled at around 20 ℃ to avoid extreme high or low temperatures.

3. Cleaning and maintenance are "gentle first"
Regular cleaning: Gently wipe with warm water and neutral detergent (such as dishwashing detergent) to avoid damaging the surface with hard brushes or abrasive cleaners.
Stubborn stain treatment: Dip a small amount of toothpaste or baking soda and gently rub, then rinse with clean water.
Drying method: After cleaning, place in a cool and ventilated place to air dry naturally. Do not dry at high temperatures or expose to direct sunlight.

4. Targeted protection for special scenarios
Outdoor products: Silicone products that are exposed to the outdoors for a long time (such as sealing rings and handles) can be coated with a small amount of food grade lubricant to form a protective film.
Kitchen utensils: Silicone spatulas and baking molds that come into contact with grease should be cleaned immediately after use to avoid residue corrosion.
Maternal and child products: pacifiers, dental implants, etc. need to be regularly disinfected at high temperatures, but the time and temperature should be controlled to avoid deformation.

The oxidation problem of silicone products is not unsolvable, the key lies in "prevention first, maintenance as a supplement". From selecting high-quality raw materials, controlling storage environment, to gentle cleaning and targeted protection, every step is related to product lifespan. Meanwhile, understanding the characteristics and cold knowledge of silicone products can help you better use and maintain them. Remember: Scientific maintenance of silicone products.