Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) Is Used In Applications Such As Hydraulic Fluids, Anti-Foaming Agents, and Lubricants
Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is an important chemical used in several applications. Its solid form resembles rubber and is a versatile material that can be easily bent or stretched. PDMS fluids are non-volatile, so they do not evaporate into the atmosphere. However, a few molecules of PDMS may be washed away by household and personal care products. They then find their way into water-treatment facilities. The chemical has many uses, including lubricants, caulking, and food antifoam. PDMS is a versatile, non-toxic, and non-flammable polymer, and it is found in many common products. While its non-volatile nature makes it ideal for many applications, polar solvents have difficulty wetting it, and so can cause several other problems. After contact with soil, PDMS degrades into compounds with lower molecular weights. The rate of degradation depends on the type of clay and moisture content in the soil. Once degraded, the compound is converted into silica, carbon d...