Silicone oil is a linear polysiloxane product that remains liquid at room temperature and is mainly divided into two categories: methyl silicone oil and modified silicone oil. Among them, methyl silicone oil, also known as common silicone oil, has all organic groups as methyl groups. This type of silicone oil has excellent chemical stability, insulation, and outstanding hydrophobic properties.
The preparation process of methyl silicone oil is also quite complex. Firstly, a primary condensation ring is obtained through the hydrolysis reaction of dimethyldichlorosilane and water. Then, the ring is cracked and distilled to obtain low-ring bodies. Next, the ring bodies, end-capping agents, and catalysts are mixed together for polycondensation reactions to obtain various mixtures with different degrees of polymerization. Finally, low-boiling substances are removed through vacuum distillation to obtain silicone oil.
In addition to methyl silicone oil, modified silicone oil is obtained by introducing other organic groups or functional groups on the basis of methyl silicone oil. These modified silicone oils retain the original properties of silicone oil while also possessing more special functions and applications. For example, some modified silicone oils have good biocompatibility and low toxicity and are widely used in the medical field; while others, due to their excellent high-temperature resistance and lubricating properties, are widely used in aviation, aerospace, and mechanical fields.
In summary, silicone oil, as an important organic compound, plays a significant role in multiple fields. Whether as a lubricant, insulator, or additive for special materials, silicone oil demonstrates its unique value and broad application prospects.