What are the physical properties of silicone-based defoamers that allow them to function effectively in both hot and cold environments?

Silicone-based defoamers possess a variety of physical properties making them highly effective for use in manufacturing processes with a wide range of temperatures. Detailed below are these key characteristics:

Low Viscosity: Silicone-based defoamers exhibit low viscosity which makes them flow freely despite temperature changes. In both hot and cold environments, they can easily spread across the foam’s surface and penetrate it, leading to effective defoaming.

Low Surface Tension: These defoamers also have low surface tension which allows them to effectively spread on the surface of the foam and destabilize the foam bubbles, regardless of the system’s temperature.

Heat Resistance: Silicone compounds show significant heat resistance. Even at high temperatures, they maintain their physical state and continue to perform their defoaming action without undergoing any thermal degradation.

Cold Flexibility: Silicone-based defoamers retain their flexibility and functionality even at very low temperatures. Unlike many compounds that harden or become less effective in cold conditions, silicone maintains its liquid state and continues to provide effective defoaming.

Non-volatility: These defoamers are non-volatile, meaning they don’t evaporate easily. This is beneficial since they remain present in the system for an extended period, continuing to suppress foam in both hot and cold conditions.

Thermal Stability: Silicone compounds exhibit excellent thermal stability. They can withstand wide temperature fluctuations without any significant changes to their structure or defoaming effectiveness.