Monolithic PDMS Laminates for Dielectric Elastomer Transducers through Open-Air Plasma Treatment

Abstract

The present study investigates the use of an open-air plasma-treatment system for the surface modification of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), in order to improve layer-to-layer adhesion. The procedure presented herein is more cost efficient compared to conventional vacuum-based plasma-treatment, and it is performed at different speeds and distances away from the nozzle, to investigate how these two parameters influence the resulting interfacial layer of two fully cured PDMS films. The plasma-treatment is determined not to alter mechanical properties compared to the single film, while peel forces are sufficient to avoid delamination during operation.

Solvothermal Alcoholysis Method for Recycling High-Consistency Silicone Rubber Waste

“…They are also biocompatible, odorless, tasteless, and have excellent compression settings and high radiation resistance. These materials therefore have a wide variety of industrial applications, e.g., in health and personal care products, building and construction materials, and the automotive, aerospace, medical, and electronic fields. − For example, liquid silicones are used as adhesives, lubricants, surfactants, sealants, stabilizers, and coolants, and as antifoaming, heat-transfer, mold-release, and wetting agents. − Silicone resins are mainly used in coatings, laminates, and impregnation. − Elastomers and silicone rubbers (SRs) are used in the production of surgical implants and membranes, components of electronic and electric equipment, kitchenware, and sporting goods and apparel. − However, molded or reacted silicones cannot be melted down and reused, and because of their chemical inertness and high thermal stabilities, they are difficult to recycle by traditional methods.…”