EPiC database - Silicone

This material is part of the free Environmental Performance in Construction (EPiC) Database. The EPiC Database contains embodied environmental flow coefficients for 250+ construction materials using a comprehensive hybrid life cycle inventory approach.Silicone is a synthetic polymer compound, with a molecular chain consisting of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms. Depending on the production process, it can take the form of a liquid, gel, elastomer or resin. It is widely used for plumbing applications, due to its adhesive properties, ability to repel water, flexibility, stability in high/low temperatures and antimicrobial properties. Silicone is derived from silicon, which is extracted from quartz, sand or other sources. To produce silicone, the base material (silicon) goes through several chemical and distillation processes. In construction, silicone is used as a sealant, adhesive or electrical insulation amongst other uses. It is also widely used in manufacturing, for production of gaskets, moulds, coatings, caulks, household goods and plumbing hardware.

本材料属于免费的环境性能在建筑中（Environmental Performance in Construction，简称EPiC）数据库的一部分。EPiC数据库收录了250多种建筑材料的环境负荷系数，采用了全面混合生命周期清单方法进行评估。硅橡胶是一种合成聚合物化合物，其分子链由交替排列的硅和氧原子组成。根据生产过程的差异，它可以呈现液态、凝胶、弹性体或树脂的形式。由于硅橡胶具有粘附性、防水性、柔韧性、高温低温稳定性以及抗菌特性，因此被广泛应用于管道系统中。硅橡胶源自硅，而硅则来源于石英、沙子或其他资源。在生产硅橡胶的过程中，基础材料（硅）需经历数道化学反应和蒸馏过程。在建筑领域，硅橡胶被用作密封剂、粘合剂或电气绝缘材料，以及其他多种用途。此外，硅橡胶在制造业中也得到广泛应用，用于生产垫圈、模具、涂层、密封胶、日用品和管道配件等。