In the ever-evolving field of materials science, silicone-based materials have long been admired for their unique properties and broad application potential. Among them, conductive liquid silicone rubber (LSR) has emerged as a shining star, capturing industry attention with its outstanding performance. But how does this remarkable material maintain stable electrical conductivity?

Material Composition and Structural Design

Selection and Optimization of Conductive Fillers:

Common fillers such as silver powder, copper powder, carbon fiber, and acetylene carbon black play a crucial role in conductivity stability. For instance:

Silver powder offers excellent conductivity and stability, maintaining low resistance across a wide temperature range. Optimal conductivity is typically achieved at 50%–70% mass fraction.

Carbon fiber and acetylene carbon black enhance high-temperature resistance and anti-aging properties, ensuring stable conductivity even under prolonged thermal stress.

3D Conductive Network Formation:

Through precise formulation and processing, conductive fillers disperse uniformly within the silicone matrix, forming a three-dimensional conductive network. This structure enables efficient electron transport, with multiple pathways ensuring stability even if individual routes are disrupted.

Precision-Controlled Processing Techniques

Mixing Process:

Uniform dispersion of fillers during mixing prevents agglomeration, which could otherwise cause conductivity fluctuations.

Molding Process:

Critical parameters (temperature, pressure, speed) in injection molding, extrusion, and compression molding must be tightly controlled to preserve the conductive network. For example:

In injection molding, proper flow and cavity filling prevent defects that could degrade conductivity.

In extrusion, consistent speed and temperature ensure dimensional accuracy and uniform conductivity.

Resistance to External Environmental Factors

Extreme Temperature Tolerance:

The silicone matrix remains stable from -70°C to 200°C, safeguarding the conductive network:

Low temperatures: Minimal molecular chain restriction maintains structural integrity.

High temperatures: Cross-linked structures prevent filler oxidation/migration.

Testing data: After 30 days at 150°C, some conductive LSRs show only a slight resistivity increase (to <0.1 Ω·cm).

Chemical Corrosion Resistance:

The silicone base resists acids, alkalis, and salts, preventing filler degradation and sustaining conductivity in harsh environments.

Conduction Mechanisms and Self-Healing Properties

Synergy of Percolation Theory & Tunneling Effect:

Percolation network: Direct electron transfer through continuous filler contact.

Tunneling effect: Electron jumps across insulating gaps between fillers.

Together, they ensure stable conductivity even if partial pathways fail.

Self-Healing Capability:

Certain conductive LSRs can repair minor damage autonomously. When deformed or locally damaged, the conductive network reorganizes, gradually restoring performance—extending service life and long-term reliability.

Conclusion

By integrating advanced fillers, optimized processing, and robust environmental resistance, conductive liquid silicone rubber delivers unmatched conductivity stability—making it indispensable for electronics, energy, and industrial applications demanding precision and durability.