Momentive Launches Silplus High Consistency Elastomer Platform

Automotive industry application is one of a number of uses Momentive Performance Materials states its new Silplus silicone elastomer is suited to. This global heat cured rubber (high consistency elastomer) platform is based on a uniform production process and raw material inputs, and will be produced primarily in Leverkusen, Germany, Shanghai, China and Ohta, Japan. The manufacturer states that all production sites will use a mix process, resulting in higher quality elastomers with good physical properties and a lower level of volatility.

The Silplus elastomer portfolio will consist of three platforms, each designed to meet the needs of different applications, and will be offered in a range of hardnesses. The platforms will include Silplus MP multi-purpose silicone elastomers, Silplus EX extrudable silicone elastomers and Silplus HS high strength silicone elastomers. Silplus MP multi-purpose silicone elastomers will help provide customers with flexibility to more easily compound or blend elastomers to achieve desired properties, and may be considered for use in a wide variety of applications and processing equipment. Silplus EX silicone elastomers help provide enhanced green strength and excellent extrusion performance, and may be considered for applications such as hose, tubing, and profiles. For higher performance applications, Silplus HS silicone elastomers can help provide higher strength and enhanced mechanical properties. All products have been tested against a variety of standards that may be required for potential applications in a variety of industries, including healthcare, consumer, automotive, and energy.

“We are excited by the many benefits that the new Silplus elastomers will bring,” said Robert Gnann, global market director of Momentive’s Elastomer business. In order to meet increasing global demand for these elastomers, Momentive will double the capacity of its Shanghai plant by the end of 2009.