Silicone Surfactant: A Key Stabilizer and Cell Regulator for Uniform, Small, and Open Cells
Silicone surfactant is a critical stabilizer and cell regulator that ensures cells are uniform, small, and open, maintaining block height and preventing cracks or even collapses.
In addition, it plays an essential role in maintaining the average density across the top, middle, and bottom of blocks, while providing safe latitude for variations in the use of tin and amine. This means that if there are slight variations in tin levels, either higher or lower, the silicone helps prevent the block from collapsing or developing cracks.
The right silicone not only offers the benefits mentioned above but also significantly improves the foam’s physical properties (resilience and deformation) and reduces losses during production caused by cracks, rework, etc. It can be selected based on the process, type, and density of the foam.
- Low-Density Foam: Requires silicone with a higher stabilization profile and lower surfactant profile.
- High-Density Foam: Requires silicone with a lower stabilization profile and higher surfactant profile.
For optimal performance, it’s best to use one type of silicone for low density, another for medium density, and a different one for high density. While it’s possible to use a single type of silicone for all densities, adjustments in the formulation structure are always necessary.
Watch the Comparison Video
Check out the video comparing two silicones used in the same formulation: one is optimized for the formulation, while the other is not.
Check out the article “The Importance of Catalysts in the Manufacturing of Flexible PU Foams”
Flexible Foam Technology
Amino offers a comprehensive portfolio of silicones for various types of flexible foams, densities, and processes. Additionally, we provide laboratories and a specialized technical team for formulation adjustments, process optimization, and ensuring foam compliance with technical standards for each application.
For more information about Amino Technology, contact us at +55 11 4077-3777 or send an email to vendas@amino.com.br.
