Silicones. Enabling the digital revolution.
The pace of digital innovation has never been faster than it is now. New and innovative products are launched every day to meet the increasing consumer demand for high-performing and durable devices.
Silicone technology lies at the heart of almost all devices that make our life easier – smartphones, computers, even our sports watches. Silicones are also instrumental for batteries in electric vehicles, protecting them from heat, cold, moisture and temperature fluctuations. Surprised? Find out more below.
The invention of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) revolutionised the world of lighting and electronics. Unlike its predecessor, the incandescent bulb, LEDs get their light from the movement of electrons inside semiconductors. This light source is not only energy-saving, but also highly effective. Light performance, protection, and a long product life are essential for LED lighting, which is why they use silicones to encapsulate the electronic parts, and to coat, seal and protect the illuminating mechanism. The silicone gel protects and enhances light output, and provides UV-resistance, non-yellowing, low impurity levels, and optical clarity. From LCD TVs to vehicle lighting, from road signs to theatre lighting, silicones ensure that the light shines brightly year after year.
Silicones protect batteries from heat and cold through the formation of an insulating thermal shield around the battery. They also insulate batteries and protect them from electric surges or battery fires. In electric cars, they shield batteries from moisture and temperature fluctuations.
In ICT, silicones have contributed to greater connectivity, mobility and enhanced power, increasing the productivity of electronic devices. As a result, the processing power and storage capacity of mobile devices are now 100 times higher than what a PC could do just 20 years ago.
A selection of digital applications using silicones:
of products were sold
in Europe in 2015
With a direct sales value of
Silicones contribute immensely to the safety of modern electronics, from protecting satellites from extreme conditions in space, to preventing overheating of batteries in mobile phones and electric vehicles.
A SNAPSHOT OF HOW SILICONES HELP IMPROVE OUR LIVES