Particle-filled silicone are elastomeric compounds that combine the advantages of silicone with electrical properties of metals. Conductive silicone materials can include the following filler materials: nickel, graphite, silver, copper, and aluminum.
Particle-filled silicone materials provide shielding against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). Silicone in itself boasts a number of tremendous properties, including high performance at extreme temperatures (-50°C - 350°C), durability and abrasion resistance, chemical stability, and electrical insulation. This combination of features makes particle-filled silicone materials ideal for EMI seals and gaskets in a range of applications and industries, including the demanding applications of the military and aerospace industries.
Some designers have concerns about using particle-filled silicone. Silicone has desirable material properties, but loading a high percentage of particle filler into the rubber in an effort to increase conductivity can result in negative tradeoffs. Typically industry professionals worry that particle filled electrically-conductive silicone will exhibit the following negative material features:
We find that suppliers are offering specialty silicone that is not too hard, too brittle, too expensive, take too long to produce, or are too thick.
This is an example of a material manufactured by Rogers Corporation. BISCO EC-2130 conductive silicones reduce EMI in a range of electronic applications. They have a low durometer which creates low compressive forces. This is just one material example among many that can be converted at Marian.
Download BISCO EC-2130 Material Data Sheet
View Other EMI Shielding Solutions from Marian
Marian can source a variety of particle-filled silicone materials and can convert the materials to create customized parts for your application. Please contact us today for additional information.