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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between RTV and Silicone?

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The key difference between RTV and silicone is that RTV is a general term for room temperature vulcanizing silicone, whereas silicone is a polymer material having repeating units of siloxane. RTV stands for room temperature vulcanizing, which means it is a type of silicone rubber that cures at room temperature.

Some differences between RTV and silicone include:

  • Chemical Structure: RTV silicone has crosslinks, while normal silicone may or may not have cross-links.
  • Cost: RTV silicone is generally more expensive than regular silicone, which is a low-cost product.
  • Usage: Due to the higher cost of RTV silicone, its usage is more limited. Regular silicone, on the other hand, is more widely used in various applications due to its lower cost.

There are two types of RTV silicones: one-component formulations (RTV-1) and two-component formulations (RTV-2). RTV-1 is supplied ready to use and cures at room temperature when exposed to moisture in the air. RTV-2 comes in two parts that have to be mixed just before they are used and cures faster than RTV-1 once mixed. RTV-2 has a broader range of applications, including 3D printing, coatings, and molds.

In summary, RTV is a specific type of silicone rubber that vulcanizes at room temperature. It has crosslinks in its structure and is generally more expensive than regular silicone. Regular silicone, on the other hand, can have cross-links or not and is a more affordable option for various applications.

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  • What is the Difference Between RTV and Silicone?
  • Comparative Table: RTV vs Silicone

    • Comparative Table: RTV vs Silicone

    RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) and silicone are sometimes used interchangeably, but they have different meanings. RTV is a general term referring to a type of silicone rubber, while silicone is a polymer material with repeating units of siloxane. Here is a table highlighting the differences between RTV and silicone:

    Property RTV Silicone
    Definition RTV is a type of silicone rubber that cures at room temperature. Silicone is a polymer material with repeating units of siloxane.
    Application RTV is commonly used as a building sealer, specifically for kitchens and bathrooms, due to its water repellent characteristics and adhesiveness. It is also used in electronic applications, such as PCBs. Silicone has various applications, including sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medicine, cooking utensils, and thermal and electrical insulation.
    Adhesion RTV has a combination of adhesive properties and rubber properties, making it suitable for low-temperature over-molding. Silicone has a wide range of adhesive properties, making it suitable for various applications.
    Curing RTV cures at room temperature and is available in one-part systems with a wide viscosity range. Silicone may require different curing methods, such as heat or moisture.
    Properties RTV is highly resistant to high temperatures and is flexible compared to other industrial adhesives. Silicone has low thermal conductivity, low toxicity, low chemical reactivity, water repellency, and electrical insulation properties.

    In summary, RTV is a specific type of silicone rubber, while silicone is a broader term encompassing a wide range of polymers with siloxane units. RTV is primarily used as a sealant and in electronic applications, while silicone has numerous applications across various industries.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.