Editorial Technical Reference

Optical Silicone Rubber

This page explains how Optical Silicone Rubber is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A specialized silicone rubber formulation engineered for optical applications requiring high transparency, light transmission, and environmental stability.

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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Optical Silicone Rubber

Definition
Optical silicone rubber is a high-performance elastomeric material specifically designed for optical and photonic applications. It is formulated from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or similar silicone polymers with carefully controlled additives to achieve exceptional optical clarity, high light transmittance across visible and near-infrared spectra, and minimal light scattering. This material maintains its optical properties under various environmental conditions including temperature fluctuations, humidity, and UV exposure, making it suitable for demanding optical systems.

Typical parameters for optical silicone rubber include a refractive index of 1.41 (ISO 489), transmittance of at least 92% (ASTM D1003), haze of 1.0% or less (ASTM D1003), Shore A hardness of 30–70 (ASTM D2240), operating temperature range of -40 to 200°C (IEC 60216), tensile strength of 5–10 MPa (ASTM D412), elongation at break of 200–600% (ASTM D412), dielectric strength of at least 20 kV/mm (IEC 60243), volume resistivity of at least 1×10^14 Ω·cm (IEC 60093), water absorption of 0.1% or less (ASTM D570), thermal conductivity of 0.2–0.3 W/(m·K) (ASTM E1530), and UV resistance of at least 1000 hours (ASTM G154). These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific product grade and application.

Optical silicone rubber is used in optical systems as a transparent medium for light transmission and protection. It can serve as protective encapsulation, optical coupling, or light-guiding elements while maintaining mechanical flexibility and environmental resistance. The material's refractive index can be tuned through formulation adjustments to match specific optical requirements.

When selecting optical silicone rubber, consider the required optical clarity, operating environment, and mechanical demands. Verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement. The listed standards are for reference only and do not imply certification or compliance of any specific product.
Working Principle
Optical silicone rubber functions as a transparent medium for light transmission and protection in optical systems. Its molecular structure provides high transparency by minimizing light scattering through controlled cross-linking and absence of crystalline regions. The material's refractive index can be tuned through formulation adjustments to match specific optical requirements. It serves as protective encapsulation, optical coupling, or light-guiding elements while maintaining mechanical flexibility and environmental resistance.
Common Materials
Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), Cross-linking agents, Optical-grade fillers, Stabilizers
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Refractive IndexRequired1.41 n/aRatio of speed of light in vacuum to speed in material at specified wavelengthISO 489
TransmittanceRequired≥92 %Percentage of incident light transmitted through material at specified thickness and wavelengthASTM D1003
HazeRequired≤1.0 %Percentage of transmitted light scattered more than 2.5 degrees from incident beamASTM D1003
HardnessRequired30–70 Shore AMaterial hardness measured on Shore A scaleASTM D2240
Operating Temperature RangeRequired-40–200 °CTemperature range where optical properties remain stableIEC 60216
Tensile Strength5–10 MPaMaximum stress material withstands while being stretchedASTM D412
Elongation at Break200–600 %Percentage increase in length before material breaks under tensionASTM D412
Dielectric Strength≥20 kV/mmElectrical insulation for optical-electronic devices.IEC 60243
Volume Resistivity≥1×10^14 Ω·cmHigh resistivity prevents electrical leakage.IEC 60093
Water Absorption≤0.1 %Low absorption maintains optical stability.ASTM D570
Thermal Conductivity0.2–0.3 W/(m·K)Typical for silicone; heat dissipation may require fillers.ASTM E1530
UV Resistance≥1000 hNo yellowing after accelerated UV exposure.ASTM G154

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Base Polymer Part
    Primary silicone polymer providing optical clarity and mechanical properties
    Material: Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) or similar silicone polymer
  • Cross-linking System Part
    Enables curing and network formation while maintaining optical clarity
    Material: Platinum catalyst or peroxide-based curing agents
  • Optical Modifiers Part
    Adjust refractive index and control light transmission properties
    Material: Specialty siloxanes or organic modifiers
  • Stabilizers Part
    Protect against UV degradation and thermal aging
    Material: UV absorbers, antioxidants, and thermal stabilizers
  • Release Agents Part
    Facilitate demolding during manufacturing
    Material: Internal mold release additives

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Optical Silicone Rubber.

Optical Grade Silicone Clear Silicone Elastomer Transparent Silicone Rubber Optical PDMS

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Up to 10 bar (145 psi) static, 5 bar (72.5 psi) dynamic
other spec: Light transmission >90% (400-700 nm), Refractive index 1.41-1.43, Shore A hardness 30-80
temperature: -60°C to +200°C continuous, up to +250°C intermittent
Media Compatibility
✓ Optical adhesives and sealants ✓ LED encapsulation materials ✓ Medical device optical components
Unsuitable: Concentrated acids or bases, strong oxidizing agents, aromatic hydrocarbons
Sizing Data Required
  • Required optical clarity specifications (transmission %, haze level)
  • Application geometry and thickness requirements
  • Environmental exposure conditions (UV, ozone, temperature cycling)

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Optical clouding/hazing
Cause: UV degradation from prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial UV sources, causing polymer chain scission and loss of transparency
Surface tackiness/softening
Cause: Plasticizer migration or absorption of contaminants (oils, solvents) that swell the silicone matrix, compromising mechanical integrity
Maintenance Indicators
  • Visible yellowing or milky haze formation in previously clear sections
  • Tacky surface texture or visible surface degradation when wiped with clean lint-free cloth
Engineering Tips
  • Apply UV-protective coatings specifically formulated for optical silicones and maintain regular reapplication schedules
  • Implement strict handling protocols using cleanroom gloves and tools to prevent contamination from oils, solvents, or particulate matter

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 9001:2015 - Quality Management Systems ASTM D2000 - Standard Classification System for Rubber Products CE Marking - EU Regulation 2017/745 for Medical Devices (if applicable)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Surface Roughness: Ra ≤ 0.4 μm
  • Dimensional Stability: ±0.05 mm over 24h at 150°C
Quality Inspection
  • Transmittance/Clarity Test (per ASTM D1003)
  • Hardness Durometer Test (Shore A scale per ASTM D2240)

Manufacturers of Optical Silicone Rubber

1 company lists this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

Hangzhou Bright Rubber Plastic Product Co., Ltd.
Hangzhou, Zhejiang, CN
ISO 9001:2015 IATF 16949
Also makes: Silicone Rubber, Liquid Silicone Rubber, Molded Rubber Part and 3 more
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
View profile Send enquiry

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical optical properties of optical silicone rubber?

Typical values include a refractive index of 1.41 (ISO 489), transmittance of at least 92% (ASTM D1003), and haze of 1.0% or less (ASTM D1003). These are reference ranges; verify with the manufacturer for the specific grade.

What temperature range can optical silicone rubber withstand?

The operating temperature range is typically -40 to 200°C (IEC 60216), where optical properties remain stable. Confirm the exact range for your application with the supplier.

Is optical silicone rubber suitable for outdoor or UV-exposed applications?

It has UV resistance of at least 1000 hours (ASTM G154) without yellowing, but prolonged exposure may require additional protection. Verify suitability for your specific environment.

How should I verify the performance of optical silicone rubber for my application?

Request datasheets and test reports from the manufacturer or supplier. Confirm that the material meets your required optical, mechanical, and environmental specifications, and check compliance with relevant standards.
Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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