As the production processes in silicone product factories gradually improve,the application of silicone products in daily life is becoming more common.However,when some companies purchase silicone products,they find that some products emit a pungent odor,which creates a negative first impression.Why do silicone products produce this pungent smell?Is this smell toxic?And so on?
These problems are usually caused by some silicone product factories trying to save costs by using substandard company materials or non-environmentally friendly materials,and cheap ordinary vulcanizing agents,instead of using environmentally friendly odorless vulcanizing agents that have fully passed ROHS testing.Vulcanizing agents catalyze the vulcanization of silicone raw materials.After the silicone product is molded,they volatilize,leaving only a small residue,which typically dissipates within 48 hours.
1.Material Reasons:Silicone products have a strong odor.Manufacturers may use some low-quality raw rubber,such as reclaimed rubber oil.Secondly,the oil(e.g.,paraffin oil)is also one of the main factors.Oil with a too-low flash point or poor composition will volatilize at high temperatures,becoming a major source of odor.
2.Vulcanization System:Silicone may use thiazole combinations like M,DM with TT,TRA vulcanization systems.The amount of M and DM should not be too high,as excessive amounts can cause an unpleasant odor.
3.Vulcanization Conditions:Excessively high vulcanization temperatures or prolonged vulcanization times can lead to an increase in odor.
Vulcanizing agents themselves generally do not cause harm to human health or goods,however,low-quality vulcanizing agents can produce a burnt,pungent odor.The volatilization period for this odor is about one month.Therefore,when choosing silicone gifts and products,it is best to select odorless silicone products with better performance.This is especially critical for silicone kitchenware,where requirements are stricter.
The base rubber itself generally doesn't have a strong smell.The odor problem is usually related to the vulcanizing agents and auxiliaries mentioned above.The chosen vulcanizing agent should be an odorless type.After a post-curing process, there should be virtually no smell left.Please note that for post-curing,the temperature should not be as high as 200°C;155°C or 150°C for 12 hours of drying is preferable.If the temperature is too high,the product can easily age,and quality cannot be guaranteed.
Therefore,when purchasing silicone products,first check the wear resistance,elasticity,tear strength,and pay attention to the odor issue.If these conditions are met,it indicates good quality silicone products.If you are unsatisfied,it's best to avoid them to prevent financial loss.
