Engineers at RMIT University have collaborated with the UNSW to create a silicone composite helping to prevent power pole top fires! The universities have developed a fire and electrical spark-resistant power-pole insulator using a silicone composite. This new material addresses the significant issue of pole-top fires and is composed of silicone rubber, aluminium hydroxide, volcanic ash-derived nanoclay, and chopped fibreglass. This combination enhances hydrophobic properties, flame retardancy, and structural integrity.

Researchers have developed a novel approach to robotic skin using cultured cells and silicone, creating lifelike, self-repairing skin that adheres seamlessly to robots! This innovation could revolutionize human-robot interaction, ensuring durability and a more human appearance. Learn more about the potential to transform robotics in the latest study published in Cell Reports Physical Science.

Guill Tool & Engineering's latest innovation: The 500 Series Rubber/Silicone Extrusion Crosshead. Designed for elastomeric compounds, it features the revolutionary MAGS adjustment system for precise, effortless adjustments. The patented cam lock design speeds up cleaning and changeovers, and the new flow inlet channel ensures balanced material flow by reducing shear and heat.

Researchers from San Diego have developed a soft, stretchable electrode attached to a silicone patch that can be worn like a sticker on the fingertip or forearm. The electrode is connected to an external power source via wires. By sending a mild electrical current through the skin, the device can produce sensations of pressure or vibration depending on the signal’s frequency."

StartUs Insights shares their latest report on the Silicone Industry's Top Trends of 2024!

The report analysed over 500 companies and acknowledged their advancements in the industry, focusing on "modern silicone technologies like silicone 3D printing, advanced adhesives, functional coatings, and more. Further, novel silicone formulations enhance resistance to extreme temperatures and pressures, expanding their potential in demanding high-performance materials."

European Exhibitor WACKER have expanded their footprint in the medtech silicone sector.

The German-based company has recently taken over Bio Med Sciences, Inc. This strategic move enhances Wacker's capabilities in developing silicone-coated healthcare products, particularly for medical devices and advanced wound care applications!

Our Conference Sponsors, Dow Performance Silicones, have expanded their partnership with Univar Solutions to distribute construction silicone products across Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).

This collaboration aims to provide customers in the region with a broader selection of construction solutions known for their durability and protective qualities in challenging environmental conditions. The products are designed to extend the lifespan of substrates and building materials, reduce maintenance costs and time, and enhance aesthetic appeal.

Robert Ruckle, Global Marketing and Sales Director at Siltech Corporation deep dives into the alternatives to PFAS compounds in response to recent #EPA and #ECHA interest and impending restrictions.

Discover how Siltech offers specialized silicone expertise as a potential replacement, addressing critical performance criteria such as surface tension, coefficient of friction, water repellency, oleophobicity, and chemical stability.

At the end of February 2024, the industry, one could almost say the family, of the European silicone rubber industry met in Amsterdam. Antje Hanisch, Operations Manager at Silcomp Group in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, describes it as a 'family reunion in Amsterdam' for the European silicone rubber industry.

Nottingham Trent University have created hyper-realistic bleeding and beating heart models crafted with 3D Silicone Printing Technology, offering surgeons unparalleled hands-on experience - innovating medical education for safer surgeries worldwide.

“The aim is to give surgeons the opportunity to learn the technical aspects of organ transplant surgery and experience the tactile aspects of removing a failing heart and connecting a different healthy one, identifying and suturing the vessels that keep the donor heart in place."

In partnership with VTT, Siemens, and Stellantis, Elkem has introduced a revolutionary iron-silicon powder for 3D printing electrical motors, marking a significant breakthrough in manufacturing!

“This is a project with the potential to transform motor parts manufacturing. We have successfully created a new specialized powder with good printability based on silicon steel (with additives). 3D printed components show enhanced flexibility and competitive magnetic properties”