Elastomers and silicone are essential materials in various industries. They are known for their flexibility, durability, and resistance to extreme conditions. While both share similar characteristics, they differ significantly in composition, performance, and applications.
Choosing the right material depends on temperature tolerance, chemical resistance, and long-term durability. Understanding these differences is crucial for making informed decisions in manufacturing, sealing, and industrial applications.
This blog will explore the differences between elastomers and silicone to help you select the best material for your needs.
What Are Elastomers?
Elastomers are rubber-like materials that can stretch and return to their original shape.
They are used in gaskets, seals, and industrial applications due to their flexibility and durability.
Elastomers can be classified into two main types.
- Natural Elastomers – Made from natural rubber, commonly used in seals and extruded rubber products.
- Synthetic Elastomers – Man-made materials like neoprene and EPDM rubber are designed for better heat, chemical, and weather resistance.
What Is Silicone?
Silicone Rubber is a special type of elastomer made from silicon and oxygen molecules instead of carbon-based rubber. This gives it exceptional resistance to extreme temperatures, chemicals, and UV exposure.
Due to its non-toxic and long-lasting properties, silicone is commonly used in medical devices, food-grade applications, and silicone rubber gaskets.
Is Silicone Considered an Elastomer?
Silicone is an elastomer, but it differs from standard rubber-based elastomers. Unlike custom extruded rubber profiles, silicone remains stable in high temperatures and harsh environments, making it ideal for aerospace, medical, and automotive applications.
Elastomers vs. Silicone
Elastomers and silicone share flexibility and durability but differ in composition, performance, and applications. Learning these differences helps select the right material for sealing, insulation, or industrial use.
1. Material Composition & Structure
Elastomers are made from natural or synthetic rubber compounds, making them stretchable and resilient. Common types include neoprene, EPDM Rubber, and nitrile rubber, which are used in extruded rubber products like seals and gaskets.
Conversely, silicone is a synthetic elastomer made from silicon, oxygen, and carbon molecules. This unique structure gives it higher heat and chemical resistance, making it ideal for medical, food-grade, and high-temperature applications like silicone rubber gaskets.
2. Temperature & Chemical Resistance
Elastomers can handle moderate heat and chemicals but may degrade over time when exposed to extreme conditions.
Silicone is highly resistant to heat (up to 300°C), chemicals, UV rays, and weathering, making it suitable for long-term outdoor use.
3. Flexibility & Durability
Elastomers provide excellent elasticity and mechanical strength, making them perfect for seals and extruded rubber products in industrial settings.
Silicone remains flexible across extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
4. Cost & Environmental Impact
Elastomers are generally more affordable and available in various custom application formulations.
Silicone is more expensive but offers a longer lifespan and stability, reducing the need for replacements.
| Feature | Elastomers | Silicone |
| Composition | Natural or synthetic rubber | Synthetic silicon-based polymer |
| Temperature Resistance | Good (up to 150°C) | Excellent (-60°C to 300°C) |
| Chemical Resistance | Varies (some degrade with oils/solvents) | Outstanding (resistant to oils, UV, and weather) |
| Durability | Strong and flexible, but may degrade over time | Extremely durable and retains flexibility in extreme conditions |
| Cost | More affordable and widely available | Higher cost but offers longer lifespan |
| Common Uses | Automotive seals, industrial gaskets, elastomeric caulks | Medical devices, food-grade applications, high-temperature gaskets |
Common Applications of Elastomers and Silicone
Both elastomers and silicone are widely used in industrial applications. Choosing the right material depends on performance needs, exposure conditions, and durability requirements.
Industries Using Elastomers
Elastomers are widely used for their flexibility, impact resistance, and durability in demanding environments.
- Automotive Industry
- Applications: Seals, hoses, belts, vibration dampeners.
- Reason: High flexibility, impact resistance, and heat tolerance.
- Industrial & Machinery
- Applications: Conveyor belts, extruded rubber parts, insulation.
- Reason: Handles wear and tear while maintaining flexibility under pressure.
- Consumer Goods
- Applications: Shoe soles, grips, shock-absorbing padding.
- Reason: Elasticity and durability for everyday use.
- Seals & Gaskets
- Applications: Extruded gaskets for plumbing, aerospace, and construction.
- Reason: Excellent sealing against fluids and gases.
Industries Using Silicone
Silicone is known for its temperature resistance, biocompatibility, and chemical stability, making it ideal for specialized industries.
- Medical & Healthcare
- Applications: Medical tubing, prosthetics, rubber O-rings, pharmaceutical seals.
- Reason: Non-toxic, biocompatible, resists bacterial growth.
- Food Industry
- Applications: Baking mats, food-grade gaskets, silicone kitchenware.
- Reason: Heat-resistant, does not react with food.
- Aerospace & Automotive
- Applications: Heat-resistant gaskets, thermal insulation, custom extrusions.
- Reason: Hnadle extreme temperatures and environmental exposure.
- Electronics & Electrical Industry
- Applications: Keypads, insulating covers, high-voltage wire coatings.
- Reason: Excellent electrical insulation and moisture resistance.
Choosing Between Elastomers and Silicone
Selecting the right material depends on several factors, including temperature resistance, chemical exposure, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
1. Temperature Resistance
- Choose elastomers for moderate heat applications (up to 150°C).
- Choose silicone for extreme temperature variations (-60°C to 300°C).
2. Chemical and Environmental Resistance
- Choose elastomers for applications requiring moderate chemical resistance, such as automotive fuel seals.
- Choose silicone for UV, moisture, and high-chemical-exposure environments, such as food processing and medical applications.
3. Durability and Lifespan
- Choose elastomers when mechanical strength and impact resistance are required.
- Choose silicone for applications demanding long-term durability.
4. Cost Considerations
- Choose elastomers for budget-friendly, mass-produced applications.
- Choose silicone when long-term performance outweighs the upfront cost.
| Factor | Elastomers | Silicone |
| Temperature Resistance | Moderate (up to 150°C) | High (-60°C to 300°C) |
| Chemical Resistance | Varies (depends on type) | Excellent (resistant to oils, acids, and UV) |
| Durability & Lifespan | Strong but may degrade over time | Long-lasting with minimal wear |
| Cost | More affordable | Higher but better longevity |
Why is Elastostar Rubber Corporation Your Trusted Silicone Partner?
Elastostar Rubber Corporation is a trusted manufacturer of high-quality elastomer and silicone products. We provide custom silicone products, extruded rubber shapes, and extruded rubber tubing for automotive, medical equipment, food-grade, and industrial applications.
Our team focuses on precision, reliability, and custom designs to meet unique industry needs. Whether you need silicone rubber gaskets or specialized extrusions, we have high-quality products that perform excellently.
Are you looking for expert advice or custom solutions? Contact us today to receive high-quality silicone products that meet your requirements!
Recommended Reads
- Top Applications of Silicone Rubber in the Aerospace Industry
- Comparing Different Types of Rubbers
- What’s the Difference Between EPDM and Silicone Rubber?
Conclusion
Several factors, including temperature resistance, chemical exposure, durability, and cost-effectiveness, influence the choice between elastomers and customized silicone rubber. Trust Elastostar Rubber Corporation for precision, reliability, and performance for high-quality silicone solutions.
FAQs
1. What is an elastomeric sealant?
Elastomeric sealant is a flexible material used to seal joints, cracks, and gaps in construction, automotive, and industrial applications. It provides strong adhesion and durability and is ideal for high-movement areas like windows and doors. Products like Extruded Rubber Lip Seals ensure long-lasting performance in demanding applications.
2. What is elastomeric caulk?
3. Elastomeric vs. silicone caulk – which is better?
Elastomeric caulk: More flexible, suitable for expansion joints and exterior sealing.
Silicone caulk: Highly water-resistant, ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and plumbing applications. For expert guidance, contact Elastostar today.
4. Is elastomeric sealant the same as silicone?
No, elastomeric sealants are rubber-based and designed for high-movement areas, while silicone is moisture-resistant and ideal for waterproofing.
5. How does elastomeric sealant compare to silicone?
Elastomeric sealants: Flexible, paintable, and great for structural applications.
Silicone sealants: Superior waterproofing, chemical resistance, and durability for wet areas.
6. Can elastomeric sealant be painted over?
Yes, elastomeric sealants can be painted, making them ideal for architectural and exterior applications. Silicone sealants cannot be painted.
