Release agent silicone oil (also known as anti-adhesion silicone oil or organic silicone release agent) is a special material based on a polysiloxane chemical structure. It forms a low surface tension elastic film through an addition curing reaction. Its main advantages include high temperature adaptability, as it remains stable within a temperature range of -60°C to 200°C, making it suitable for extreme conditions. It also offers excellent release properties, allowing control of the release force from light to strong by adjusting the ratio of the main agent (vinyl silicone oil) to the crosslinking agent (hydrogen-containing silicone oil). Additionally, it is safe and environmentally friendly, with low toxicity, no odor, and non-flammability, meeting environmental standards such as ROHS. However, oil-based products may release trace amounts of volatile gases at high temperatures.
In the packaging and labeling industry, release agent silicone oil is widely used in baking paper, serving as a release coating that prevents adhesion to food while withstanding high-temperature baking conditions. In self-adhesive envelopes and labels, it provides stable release force, preventing pressure-sensitive adhesive layers from failing and supporting automated labeling processes. It is also used in thermal paper, such as for cash register receipts and logistics labels, ensuring easy separation between the paper and adhesive layer after printing.
In the plastics and rubber processing industry, release agent silicone oil is applied in injection molding and extrusion, where it is sprayed onto mold surfaces to prevent polyethylene, polypropylene, and other materials from sticking, thereby improving production efficiency. It is also used in composite material manufacturing, aiding in the demolding of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) and carbon fiber products to prevent resin residue.
In the medical and hygiene product sector, release agent silicone oil is utilized in medical dressings, such as bandages and sanitary napkins, where it serves as a release coating for release paper, ensuring stable separation of the adhesive layer from packaging materials in sterile environments. It is also used in disposable medical devices, such as catheters and infusion patches, to improve usability.
In the construction and electronics industries, release agent silicone oil is used in foamed materials and soundproof membranes. UV-curable silicone oil is applied in building insulation films and automotive soundproofing materials, providing quick curing with minimal pollution. It is also used in electronic tapes and protective films, providing a release layer for double-sided tapes and PET protective films, facilitating adhesion and removal in precision electronic components.
In specialized industrial applications, release agent silicone oil is employed in the aerospace sector for demolding composite material molds, as it withstands high temperatures and chemical corrosion. In 3D printing, it is used as a release agent on printing platforms to prevent adhesion of resin or plastic models.
Compared to traditional release agents, silicone oil release agents offer superior release performance with adjustable release force. In terms of environmental impact, oil-based products require ventilation, whereas water-based products are more eco-friendly.
Regarding applicability, silicone oil release agents are well-suited for high-temperature and precision applications, wax-based release agents are cost-effective and suitable for simple molding, and water-based release agents are particularly advantageous in food and medical applications.
For usage and storage, it is essential to clean mold surfaces with a specialized cleaner to remove grease and dust before application. New molds should undergo a pre-coating process 5–6 times. When spraying, the product should be diluted according to instructions to avoid excessive dilution. The coating should be applied evenly at a distance of 20–30 cm from the mold, ensuring no missed spots or liquid accumulation. The drying time is typically 5–10 minutes at room temperature or low-temperature drying, as high temperatures may damage the coating. During operation, protective gloves and masks should be worn to prevent skin contact or inhalation. Release agent silicone oil should not be mixed with acidic or alkaline substances and should be stored in a cool, sealed environment.
The next generation of UV-curable silicone oil offers fast curing speeds and low energy consumption, making it increasingly in demand in the electronics and medical fields. In the food packaging industry, the proportion of water-based silicone oil is rising to meet strict hygiene standards. Additionally, nano-modified silicone oil (such as those containing nano-silica) is expected to enhance abrasion resistance and release stability.
With its excellent chemical stability, adjustable release performance, and environmentally friendly properties, release agent silicone oil has become an essential auxiliary material in modern industry. As technological advancements and environmental regulations evolve, its application range will continue to expand, offering innovative solutions for precision manufacturing, medical applications, and sustainable packaging.
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