CLEANING INJECTION MOLDED SILICONES AND OTHER POLYMERS WITH CO2

Summary

CO2 cleaning technology has been effectively used for 28 years to remove contaminants from injection molded silicones and other polymers. Developed initially for aerospace applications, this method enhances product reliability by eliminating residues that can interfere with performance. CO2 processing is a robust alternative to traditional cleaning methods, offering environmental compliance and superior cleaning capabilities for critical applications, including medical devices and aerospace components.

Highlights

  • Established Technology: CO2 cleaning has been in use for 40 years.
  • Broad Applications: Used in aerospace, medical devices, and microelectronics.
  • Effective Contaminant Removal: Cleans particles, ionic contamination, and organic residues.
  • Enhanced Performance: Improves reliability of components used in critical environments.
  • Environmental Compliance: CO2 is non-toxic and non-flammable.
  • Advanced Techniques: Includes centrifugal extraction and particle-plasma cleaning and surface treatment.
  • Significant Benefits: Increases adhesive bond strength and electrical resistance.

Key Insights

  • Versatile Cleaning Method: CO2 cleaning adapts to various polymers, making it suitable for diverse industries. Its ability to remove contaminants without damaging sensitive components is crucial for high-stakes applications.
  • Historical Development: Initially developed at Hughes Aircraft for space applications, the technology has evolved to meet stringent NASA cleaning standards, showcasing its reliability in extreme environments.
  • Contamination Challenges: Silicone contamination can lead to issues in biomedical and aerospace applications, necessitating effective cleaning methods to ensure safety and performance.
  • Limitations of Conventional Methods: Traditional cleaning techniques like solvent extraction and thermal vacuum bakeout often degrade material properties and are time-consuming, highlighting the need for better alternatives.
  • CO2 Processing Benefits: The CO2 method offers rapid cleaning, better environmental compliance, and recycling capabilities, which are significant advantages over traditional solvents.
  • Surface Activation: CO2 processing not only cleans but can also modify surfaces to enhance adhesion and bonding, making it ideal for complex manufacturing processes.
  • Economic Advantages: By reducing energy consumption and waste generation, CO2 cleaning methods can lower life-cycle costs for manufacturers, making them a sustainable choice.