The Complete Guide to Silicone 3D Printing

A major breakthrough has been made in the field of additive manufacturing with the introduction of an innovative technology that enables 3D printing of silicone parts. This new technique has attracted a great deal of interest in the 3D printing industry, as previously it was not possible to melt silicone with heat and deposit it layer by layer, as is the case with polymers or metals. These new developments, especially in the medical and medical biomaterial fields, are helping to improve the outcomes of existing treatments for patients. In addition, with the steady advancement and maturity of 3D printing technology, new possibilities and opportunities are opening up that were previously unthinkable.

Silicone 3D printing is expected to have a significant impact on the industry and represents an important milestone in the development of 3D technology. According to a study by Precision Business Insight, the silicone 3D printing market is estimated to reach $1,590.3 million in 2021 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 19.9% through 2028. This growth will also be driven by 3D printing companies offering new silicone-compatible solutions. In this guide, we will take a closer look at silicone and how the material is being used in additive manufacturing.

Photo Credits: Beamler

Silicone: What Is It and How Is It Made?

Polysiloxane, commonly known as silicone, is an inorganic polymer obtained by the polymerization of siloxanes (molecules composed of silicon and oxygen atoms). In the context of polysiloxanes, polymerization occurs through a condensation reaction of the siloxanes. This transformation takes place in the presence of a catalyst, which may be an acid or a base, and whose function is to promote the formation of bonds between the functional groups of the siloxanes. The polymer chains thus exhibit remarkable mobility thanks to the bonds formed between the oxygen and silicon atoms. This category of polymers is characterized mainly by its chemical resistance and its physical and mechanical properties. Polysiloxane and silicone are terms that refer to the same material. While the former is the technical term, the latter is more commonly used in commercial and everyday environments.