ElastaPro makes two types of cellular silicone sheet: medium-density silicone foam and medium-density silicone sponge. Both are closed cell materials.

What is a Medium Density Cellular Silicone?

A medium density cellular silicone is a compressible material that balances softness and firmness, making it ideal for applications like gasketing and sealing where a balance of compressibility and durability is needed. It offers a wide temperature range, excellent resistance to UV, ozone, and water, and maintains its shape well after compression due to low compression set.

Key Characteristics

  • Density: This is a classification, not just a measurement of weight. It indicates a material that is a compromise between soft and firm, providing enough flexibility for sealing without excessive compression. For reference, some medium density products have a density around 29-30 pounds per cubic foot.
  • Closed-cell structure: The closed cells trap air, making the material a thermal insulator and impervious to water and gases. This also makes it great for creating a good seal with low compressive force.
  • Temperature resistance: It can withstand a wide temperature range.
  • Compression set resistance: It resists permanent deformation after being compressed, which is crucial for gasketing and sealing applications.
  • Environmental resistance: It is resistant to UV light, ozone, and atmospheric attack.
  • Physical properties: It is flexible, strong, and stable, and it can be made with or without a fiberglass reinforcement.

Common Applications

  • Gasketing: Creating seals for enclosures and equipment that need to withstand various conditions, such as those requiring IP65/IP66 ratings for dust and water protection.
  • Cushioning and vibration dampening: Providing shock absorption and controlling vibration.
  • Insulation: Offering thermal insulation due to its closed-cell, air-filled structure.
  • Weather stripping: Sealing against the elements in outdoor applications.

What is a Closed-Cell Cellular Silicone?

A closed cell silicone is a type of cellular silicone where the cells are completely enclosed and do not interconnect. This makes it impervious to water, moisture, and dust, and ideal for applications like seals, gaskets, and electrical insulation where a barrier is needed. Unlike open-cell materials, closed-cell silicones have very low water absorption, maintain their sealing properties, and are resistant to extreme temperatures.
Contact ElastaPro for medium-density closed cell silicone.