Rising Focus on the Production of Lightweight Vehicles to Increase the Demand for Automotive Silicone

Automotive silicone, a specialized variant of silicone, plays a pivotal role in various automotive applications. It is renowned for its notable attributes, including temperature resistance, electrical insulation properties, and inherent durability. Silicone-based materials, like adhesives, silicone foams, and sealants are important to make automotive products lightweight owing to their low density and ability to replace heavier materials. These lightweight silicone materials are opted for in various applications, such as seals, gaskets, electrical components, and thermal management systems, to reduce overall vehicle weight. Furthermore, with the growing environmental sustainability and fuel costs, automakers are focused on improving the fuel efficiency of vehicles. The silicone-based technologies contribute to enhancing fuel efficiency in thermal management, aerodynamics, and powertrain & and electrification.?

Silicone's adaptability and resilience are the driving forces behind its widespread incorporation in automotive applications. The capability to endure high-temperature conditions without breaking down or losing its structural integrity makes it an ideal choice for components that operate within the fiery confines of an engine. Furthermore, its ability to retain flexibility in the face of sub-zero temperatures is crucial for applications in regions that experience frigid climates. In addition to its temperature resistance, silicone offers exceptional electrical insulation properties, safeguarding sensitive electronic components within the vehicle from potential damage or malfunction caused by electrical interference. This unique combination of properties positions automotive silicone as an essential material in the quest for reliable and robust automotive systems.?

By observing the growth in the demand for the product and acceptance of automotive silicone globally, numerous strategic initiatives were observed in the recent past; some of them are mentioned below:?

KCC Silicone Launches SS7053 – A Conformal Coating Silicone to Protect PCBs?

On October 18, 2023, KCC Silicone launched SS7053, a conformal coating silicone designed to safeguard printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic components. This innovative product, free of solvents, boasts low viscosity and, when applied in a thin layer ranging from 60 to 150 μm, yields a smooth, protective coating that significantly reduces the load on PCBs. SS7053 offers robust defense against the rigors of external environmental factors and has the ability to withstand extreme temperatures, ranging from a frigid -40°C to a scorching 200°C. This thermal resilience feature inherent to silicone, sets it apart from alternative materials such as acrylic, polyolefin, and urethane, rendering it suitable for an extensive array of applications, including those within the automotive industry and various electronic components. KCC Silicone's SS7053 emerges as a pivotal solution for engineers and manufacturers seeking reliable, long-lasting protection for their PCBs and electronic components in the face of diverse environmental challenges and temperature fluctuations. The solvent-free composition, coupled with its adaptability across different sectors, makes SS7053 an indispensable asset for enhancing the durability and longevity of electronic devices in the ever-evolving technological landscape.?

This strategic initiative is projected to escalate the demand in the automotive silicone market and create opportunities for local manufacturers in the region.?

Elkem Introduces a Lineup of Products at the CIIE?

On October 25, 2023, at the China International Import Expo (CIIE), Elkem introduced its extensive lineup of new product launches that showcase the company's commitment to technological innovation and sustainability across diverse sectors. With a strong focus on sectors like home, automotive, energy, healthcare, and future technology, Elkem is playing a pivotal role in guiding mankind into a new era of eco-friendly and smart living. Among the notable innovations unveiled at the event was the SILCOLEASE UV LED series, an innovative product in consumer electronics manufacturing. Elkem's SILCOLEASE UV LED series is a beacon of innovation, promising a greener and more sustainable approach to manufacturing processes, which is increasingly vital in an era where environmental concerns are paramount. The shift towards LED technology not only ensures reduced energy consumption but also eliminates the harmful elements associated with mercury vapor lamps.?

Elkem is dedicated to enhancing its production capabilities in the intelligent transportation sector, particularly within the evolving automotive industry. With a focus on electrification and lightweight trends, Elkem leverages over two decades of experience in airbag technology and a strong commitment to innovation. They have introduced novel measures such as the adoption of one-piece weaving (OPW) technology in curtain airbags (CAB). Additionally, they have integrated high-quality silicone coating products to enhance the airtightness and pressure retention of pedestrian airbags. These initiatives represent a significant leap forward in airbag technology, elevating their protective capabilities and providing more reliable and comprehensive safety measures for transportation.?

The Automotive Silicone Market to Witness Outstanding Progress??

These strategic initiatives would boost the automotive silicone market progressively, as major economies as well as major manufacturers are realizing the potential and importance of automotive silicone in automotive manufacturing. This has resulted in an increase in investment in the sector. In addition, numerous developing economies are progressively demanding automotive silicone on a large scale, owing to the surge in the establishment of manufacturing units in the regions.?