A Complete Guide to Conductive Silicone Rubber

What is Conductive Silicone Rubber?

Conductive silicone rubber is a specialised grade of silicone formulated to combine the flexibility and durability of silicone with electrical conductivity. This material incorporates conductive fillers, such as carbon, silver or nickel particles, into the compound to enable it to transmit electrical signals or shield against electromagnetic interference (EMI). Conductive silicone is valued for its unique ability to provide both mechanical resilience and electrical performance. It indispensable in applications across the electronics, aerospace and telecommunications industries.

In addition to its conductive properties, this material retains the inherent advantages of standard silicone rubber, such as resistance to extreme temperatures, chemical stability and environmental durability. It can be manufactured in various forms, including sheets, gaskets and moulded components to suit specific application requirements.

Appearance

Only available in black.

Tear Strength

Resistance to tearing around 20N/mm2. 

Density

   Formulated for a density of 1.21 g/cm3 at 23°C.

Hardness

   Available with a 75ᵒ Shore A hardness.

Tensile Strength

  Tensile strength of 7.2 MPa.

Elongation at Break

   Flexibility of 180% without breaking.

Williams Plasticity

Williams plasticity value of 650.

TC-8 Curing Agent

   3.0 TC-8 curing agents per eight parts

Learn how conductive silicone is formulated, how it differs from other specialist grades and common applications within the industry.

How is Conductive Silicone Rubber Made?

The production of conductive silicone rubber begins with the synthesis of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), the base silicone polymer. To impart conductivity, finely dispersed conductive fillers, such as carbon black, silver-plated particles or graphite, are blended into the silicone compound. These fillers create pathways for electrical conductivity while maintaining the materials flexibility and resilience.

The formulation is carefully controlled to balance conductivity with other mechanical and thermal properties. Platinum or peroxide curing systems are often employed to vulcanise the material and create a cross-linked polymer network that ensures long-term performance. The curing process solidifies the rubber allowing it to withstand mechanical stress and environmental exposure without compromising its conductive capabilities.

Conductive silicone rubber undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its electrical properties, such as volume resistivity, meet application-specific requirements. Additional tests assess its mechanical strength, thermal stability and environmental resistance to ensure reliability in demanding conditions. In some instances, we can customise formulations to optimise the materials conductivity, hardness and durability for specialised uses.

Mixing conductive silicone rubber

Advantages of Conductive Silicone Rubber

Conductive silicone rubber offers several advantages over general purpose silicone. These advantages demonstrate the benefits of using this material for advanced engineering applications. Its primary benefit is its ability to combine electrical conductivity with the flexibility and resilience of silicone. This makes it ideal for applications that require both electrical functionality and mechanical performance, such as EMI shielding or electrical contacts.

The materials exceptional thermal stability allows it to perform reliably across a wide temperature range, typically from -60°C to 200°C or more. This ensures consistent electrical and mechanical performance even in extreme environments. Additionally, conductive silicone rubber resists environmental degradation, including UV radiation, ozone and moisture. This makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Conductive silicone rubber is highly versatile, with customisable properties to meet specific requirements. It can be tailored for different levels of conductivity and form factors. This allows end users and OEMs to design components for diverse applications. Its compatibility with various manufacturing techniques, such as moulding, extrusion and die-cutting, further enhances its adaptability.

Silicone rubber extrusions in a range of colours

Common Applications and Uses

Conductive silicone rubbers unique properties and characteristics make it indispensable in various industries. Below are three key application areas:

Industries

Silicone rubber seals used within the electronic industry

 Electronics

In the electronics industry, conductive silicone is widely used for EMI shielding and gasketing solutions. It is commonly employed in electronic enclosures, connectors and cable assemblies to prevent electromagnetic interference from affecting sensitive devices. Its ability to maintain electrical conductivity while providing a reliable seal ensures optimal performance in consumer electronics, medical devices and industrial control systems.

Electronics

Silicone rubber seals used within the aerospace industry

 Aerospace

In aerospace and defence, conductive silicone rubber is used in components that require robust performance under extreme conditions. Applications include sealing systems for avionics enclosures, radar equipment and satellite components. The materials combination of thermal stability, electrical conductivity and environmental resistance ensures reliable operation in high-altitude and high-temperature environments. Its lightweight properties also make it ideal for weight-sensitive applications.

  Aerospace  

Silicone rubber seals used within the automotive industry

 Automotive

In automotive applications, conductive silicone rubber is increasingly utilised in advanced vehicle technologies. It is used in sensors, battery systems and electrical connectors for electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving systems. The materials resistance to harsh conditions, such as temperature fluctuations, vibration and exposure to oils and chemicals ensures long-lasting performance in automotive environments.

Automotive 

Material Compound Datasheets

Conductive silicone can only be extruded in one hardness. Depending on the required application, the properties and characteristics of this hardness may be suitable. Please see the downloadable PDF material compound datasheet for this information.

75 Shore A

Looking for a different grade of Silicone?

As well as conductive Silicone, we are also able to manufacture rubber sealing products in a selection of other specialised Silicone compounds. This includes general purpose silicone, metal detectable silicone, high temperature silicone and flame retardant silicone.

Other Silicone Grades

Contact Us

With over 50 years' experience in the rubber sealing industry, our team has extensive experience in finding sealing solutions for our customers. Contact our experts via phone or email for sealing advice or bespoke quotations.