"Steel Tenderness" across the interface: in-depth analysis of the bonding password between the additive liquid silica gel and the metal

Steel Tenderness Across the Interface: In-depth Analysis of Interfacial Bonding in LSR Over-Molding

The interface between liquid silicone and metal substrates represents a critical zone where chemistry, physics, and engineering meet. Achieving strong, durable bonding at this interface is essential for the performance of LSR over-molded metal parts.

Bonding Mechanisms:

1. Mechanical Interlocking: Surface roughening of the metal creates microscopic anchor points for the silicone.

2. Chemical Bonding: Silane-based adhesion promoters form chemical bridges between the silicone and metal oxide surfaces.

3. Physical Adsorption: Van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding contribute to interfacial adhesion.

Factors Affecting Bond Quality:

- Metal surface cleanliness and activation (plasma treatment)

- Surface roughness profile (typically Ra 1.6-3.2 micrometers)

- Selection of appropriate LSR grade with adhesion promoters

- Process parameters (temperature, pressure, curing time)