Silicone: A Synthetic Polymer Used as Adhesive and Sealants

Silicones are versatile polymers consisting of an alternating silicon-oxygen backbone, typically with aliphatic or aromatic side groups. Silicones can be classified as fluids, elastomers, or resins depending on their molecular weight, the extent of cross-linking, and the type and number of organic groups attached to the silicon atoms.

Globally the demand for silicones is expected to rise fueled by manufacturing and construction activity. Further, the increase in silicone demand will also benefit from the rising use of high-value materials in emerging applications, particularly in the newly industrialized nations of the world where the use of silicones is not yet mature. Moreover, the price increase will reflect growth in demand for higher value silicone products and intense price competition among suppliers will limit the gains. 

The Asia Pacific region will remain the largest consumer of silicone. The silicone market will continue to be driven by the large silicone market in China. China is the largest purchaser of silicones in Asia which is approximately 54% of all the Asian sales followed by Japan, South Korea, India, and Taiwan with 18%, 12%, 8%, and 5%. 

North America and Western Europe earlier saw a decline in silicone demand because of economic recession. However, silicone demand is expected to rise because of the rebound in construction and automobile industry. The technological advancement and product innovation in the silicone will further expand the application base for long term market growth. 

Electrical and electronics was the leading outlet for silicones. But the demand of silicone from the construction industry is increasing rapidly, which will propel the silicone market. The global construction industry is one of the colossal industries in the whole world. This industry has been one of the major contributors to the world GDP, adding almost up to one-tenth of the total amount. The moderate gains are expected in other sectors such as paper production, textiles, and plastic additives. 

In building and construction, silicone is used as a sealant or adhesive. This includes sealing glass windows in buildings, as well as sealing the gaps between the glass windows and frames. Silicone glue is also used as a glazing and bathroom sealant. Silicone adhesives are widely used in the exterior paints and coatings owing to its properties. Silicone adhesives and structural silicone glazing are used to protect and maintain the long-term quality and appearance of a building facade, helping commercial and industrial structures withstand ongoing exposure to the elements. Silicone properties deliver performance characteristics on many products and processes through its technical viability and economic efficiency. The use of silicone is so widespread across various end user industries that silicone market will remain on the growth path.