Skin-like silicones: an epidermal epiphany

Shin-Etsu Silicones has recently introduced its new Shin-Etsu Select-Skin RTV Elastomers series for applications requiring a skin-like material and tough properties.

The elastomers are comprised of two series: the “super soft” SES22330 (1:1 ratio) and the “tough skin” SES22230 (10:1 ratio). Both series are two-component, heat-cured, and addition-cure type silicone rubber compounds featuring low hardness, high tear strength, low viscosity, high elongation, and low tackiness. Each series offers three Shore 00 hardness options: the “super soft” SES22330 (10, 20, and 30) and the “tough skin” SES22230 (45, 55, and 65).

The new materials are designed for applications like special effects masks in the film industry, liners for orthopedic prosthetics, cushioning, and animatronic skins for theme parks and other forms of entertainment.

It's particularly suitable for use in prosthetics due to an  ability to insulate longer by distributing peak socket pressures. When used in liners, the materials are suitable for protection from shear forces to reduce compressive stresses and the suspension of the prosthetic device. The materials can also be used to accommodate unique limb shapes and volume fluctuations.

Being translucent, Select-Skin can be readily pigmented for a customised appearance. The series’ fast cure time at room temperature reduces cycle time and improves productivity. Additionally, the material has an extended pot-life of up to 160 minutes.

SESA’s North America Marketing Manager, Eric Bishop said: “The unique skin-like feel provides numerous performance advantages and creative aesthetic possibilities across a myriad of applications. The Select-Skin RTV Elastomer series’ resiliency and toughness delivers unparalleled durability across this span.”