What is Silica?

What is Silicone?

Silicones or polysiloxane particularly in the form of silicone rubber and medical-grade silicones, have a significant role in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors. They are known best for their thermal stability, electrical insulation, durability, flexibility, and soft texture. Silicone is heat resistant. Silicone repels water which means they do not absorb water and the properties of silicone are retained when exposed to moisture. It is widely used in medical implants and devices....

Properties of Silicone

Silicone is temperature resistant, it can withstand extremely high and low temperatures without losing its properties which makes it suitable for use in applications exposed to varying temperature conditions. Silicone works as a waterproof material as it repels water. Hence it is used as a sealant which requires water resistance. Silicone is used in electrical and electronic components as it possesses electrical insulation properties. Silicone is non-toxic, odorless, and has low surface energy making it suitable for use in kitchenware and bakeware applications. Silicone exhibits high tear strength. This property makes it valuable to use in applications where mechanical stress is a consideration as it is resistant to tearing and ripping....

What is Silica?

Silica is also called silicon dioxide (SiO2), one of the most abundant minerals. Silica is available in both crystalline and amorphous (non-crystalline) forms. Quartz is a common crystalline form. Silica can resist reaction with most of the chemicals which makes it useful for the preparation of laboratory glassware and used as a container for corrosive substances. Also, a highly porous form, silica gel is used as drying agent as it absorbs moisture....

Properties of Silica

Silica is a versatile compound. It is particularly present in its crystalline forms like quartz, is known for its hardness. Quartz is one of the hardest minerals and is used in abrasive applications. Silica has many covalent bonds which are very strong and difficult to break. Thus, it has high melting point (Approx. 1700oC) making it suitable for high-temperature applications such as glassmaking and ceramics production. Silica nanoparticles have shown biocompatibility and are explored for use in biomedical applications, such as drug delivery systems and medical imaging. Silica is transparent in its pure form so it is used in optics, including the production of glass for windows and lenses....

Difference Between Silicone and Silica

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Conclusion – Silicone vs Silica

So, while silicone and silica share a common foundation in silicon and oxygen chemistry, their distinct roles in the life sciences highlight their unique contributions to the fields of medicine, biotechnology, and healthcare. The difference between these two materials is important to understand in order to select the suitable material for specific applications by ensuring that their usage doesn’t pose any risks to health....

FAQs on Difference Between Silicone and Silica

1. How is silicone made?...