The current status and future prospects of phenyl silicone rubber applications in aerospace
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I. Current Application Status
Sealing Performance
Due to its high and low temperature resistance (-100°C to 350°C) and thermal cycling resistance, phenyl silicone rubber is widely used in critical sealing components such as doors and windows, ensuring the airtightness of space stations and spacecraft in extreme environments.
Thermal Insulation and Fire Resistance
In high-temperature areas such as engines and APUs, phenyl silicone rubber, as a fire-resistant sealing material, can isolate flames, and its ablation resistance ensures aircraft safety. Space-grade low-phenyl silicone rubber can also withstand space radiation, preventing material degradation.
Vibration Damping and Electrical Insulation
Due to its high elasticity, it is used in shock absorbers to suppress launch vibrations; its electrical insulation properties are used in cable insulation and electronic equipment protection to prevent electromagnetic interference.
II. Technological Breakthroughs and Challenges
Progress in Domestic Production: my country has achieved breakthroughs in the production of methylphenylcyclosiloxane, achieving an annual production capacity of 10 tons, addressing the space station's "lack of available material" dilemma. Process Optimization: Molecular distillation, cracking, purification, and the development of new initiators have improved the depolymerization problem of fluorosilicone rubber.
III. Outlook
Deep Space Exploration Demand: With the increase in deep space missions, radiation-resistant and ultra-low-temperature-resistant materials (such as phenyl silicone rubber that maintains elasticity at -100°C) will become increasingly important.
Multifunctional Integration: In the future, composite phenyl silicone rubbers with both electrical and thermal conductivity may be developed to meet the needs of multifunctional spacecraft components.
Lightweighting and Environmental Protection: The application of low-density fire-retardant sealants may be further expanded to reduce aircraft weight and improve environmental performance.
In summary, technological advancements in the aerospace field will continue to drive phenyl silicone rubber toward high performance and multifunctionality, making it a key material for deep space exploration and the development of new aircraft.