Silicones — A new continent in the world of chemistry

Silicones now are available in commercial quantities as fluids for use in hydraulic devices, as lubricating oils, as liquid dielectrics, in high vacuum diffusion pumps; silicone compounds for waterproof insulation in ignition systems and high-frequency communications equipment; greases for very high and very low temperature lubrication; “rubber” for heat-resistant gaskets, diaphragms, tubing, electrical insulation; various resins for insulation, protective coatings, bonding agents for inorganic laminations. This new “continent” in the world of industrial chemistry has extended enormously the known boundaries and opened many new areas for exploration.