In the current craze for handmade crafts, silicone beads stand out for their versatility. Whether for decorating homes, creating personalized jewelry, or serving as a stress-relieving item, they are perfectly suited for all these purposes. Would you like to master this super practical craft skill and make beautiful silicone beads? Follow our steps and get started.
Laboratory Preparation Method
Sol-Gel Method
In the process of making silica beads, the correct selection of materials is the key first step towards success. Below is a list of essential materials you will need: Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), as the main ingredient, plays a decisive role in the formation of the silica bead structure; 28% ammonia solution, which creates an alkaline environment, effectively controls the reaction rate and aids in the smooth formation of silica beads; and ethanol, as a solvent, is responsible for evenly dispersing other materials and ensuring that all components come into full contact and react efficiently.
lPre-mixing: Mix ethanol, water, and ammonia solution in a volume ratio of 5:3:2.
lAdding TEOS dropwise: Slowly add TEOS (1mL/min) with magnetic stirring (500rpm).
lReaction control: React at 25°C for 4 hours to form a milky white sol.
lCentrifugal cleaning: Centrifuge at 8000rpm for 5 minutes, wash with deionized water 3 times.
lDrying: Vacuum dry at 60°C for 12 hours.
Industrial Spray Drying Method
The production of silicone beads requires a spray dryer and a silicone precursor tank. The former atomizes and dries the silicone precursor solution into beads, while the latter seals the liquid storage and provides a stable supply of material for the former.
In the production process of silicone beads, the "silica sol preparation"Link is first activated, where various raw materials are mixed in specific proportions to carefully prepare a silica sol with precise composition, laying a solid foundation for subsequent steps. After preparation, the silica sol flows into the "B[spray nozzle]", where, with the help of advanced atomization technology, the silica sol is sprayed into countless tiny droplets and evenly dispersed in the space. It then enters the "hot air drying" stage, where high-temperature air blows through, quickly removing the moisture from the droplets and promoting their rapid solidification and shaping. Finally, the "cyclone collection" device is used, which, by means of the strong centrifugal force generated by the cyclone, precisely captures and collects the formed silicone beads, completing the entire production process.
Common Problem Solutions
Problem 1: Silicone bead adhesion
Cause: Incomplete drying
Solution: Add a freeze-drying step (-50°C pre-freezing), surface modification (treated with hexamethyldisilazane)
Problem 2: Uneven particle size
Cause: Fluctuations in stirring speed
Solution: Use a high-shear emulsifier (±1% particle size distribution), sieving classification (100-200 mesh standard sieve)
Problem 3: Low mechanical strength
Reinforcement plan: High-temperature sintering (800°C for 2 hours), incorporation of titanium dioxide (increases compressive strength by 30%)
Following the above process, you can begin to produce silicone beads. From the preparation of silicone sol to the completion of subsequent steps with the aid of equipment, each step requires careful attention. If any issues arise during production, such as uneven spraying or low collection efficiency, you can leave comments for discussion in the comment section. With the collective wisdom, overcoming challenges, and looking forward to you achieving a satisfactory final product.