Silicone and latex are both rubbers, then what makes them different from each other? Actually, there are many variables at play here, right from the formulation to the properties to the usage.
Silicone rubber is a type of elastomer which is nothing but rubber-like materials. This may sound confusing at first, as silicone has rubber in its name itself.
However, natural rubber actually refers to latex rubber while silicone is a synthetic variant that displays elastic properties.
Let us understand the difference between latex and silicone rubbers in detail:
- Latex rubber is a natural product that is derived from the sap of the rubber tree. Silicone is a man-made polymer that has stretchy properties.
- Being natural, latex is obviously eco-friendly. While silicone is produced from sand, it cannot be considered natural as it also goes through a complex manufacturing process.
- Latex is a beige-colored, water-based material that is softer and more flexible than silicone. The latter is usually transparent but can be formulated in different colors. It is also flexible but not as much as latex.
- Silicone will not age and the products can retain their color and shape for years. It can withstand UV exposure and weathering. On the other hand, latex is long-lasting but will ultimately show signs of wear in both color and shape. It will deteriorate faster when exposed to the elements.
- In fact, silicone is more expensive and can cost twice as more as latex rubber. However, it will last around four times longer, making it the more economical choice in the long run.
- Both latex and silicone can survive temperatures as low as -50°C. However, silicone has better resistance to higher temperatures as it is formulated to operate up to 230 °C. However, latex will start weakening at 80 °C and melts at 120 °C. Therefore, silicone rubber is definitely the better choice for high temperature applications.
- Silicone has significantly better flame resistance than latex rubber. It also displays wider chemical resistance than the natural variant of rubber.
- Latex exhibits better strength and resistance to abrasions making it suitable for high wear applications while silicone rubber should not be subjected to abrasion and wear.
- Latex is known to cause allergic reactions in some people like redness and itching on the skin. Silicone does not cause flare up of allergies.
- Latex may contain small amounts of toxic additives like carcinogens which are used to stabilize the rubber. Silicone production stays free of questionable stabilizing agents.
Special forms of silicone are formulated that can be used for medical applications and even in the food processing industry. Even skin-safe variants are available.
EnvironMolds offers a complete range of materials, supplies and equipment for making molds, casts and life casts. The wide roster of materials includes silicone rubber, latex rubber, polyurethane rubber and thermoset mold rubber with the option of varying formulations. Special coloring agents like latex and silicone paint and dyes are also available as these materials are not compatible with regular paints.