Hydroxy silicone oil (Model 203, such as SH-203 and CDS-750 grades) can be applied to space sand, yet dimethyl silicone oil 201# (PDMS) is the mainstream primary choice. Hydroxy silicone oil is an industrial high-grade option with superior performance in specific scenarios.
1. Silicone Oil Types and Application Scenarios
| Silicone Oil Type | Applicable Scenarios | Core Features | Recommended Viscosity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimethyl silicone oil 201# | Household preferred, food and cosmetic grade safe | Colorless, transparent, odorless and non-toxic, soft and easy to shape, non-sticky, good fluidity | 500cSt (25°C), 350～1000cSt are all acceptable |
| Hydroxy silicone oil 203# | Industrial mass production, high-transparency products, strong shaping performance pursuit | Equipped with hydroxyl functional groups, stronger adhesion to sand grains, long-lasting shaping, drier texture and moisture resistance | 200～800cSt, 350/500cSt commonly used |
2. Mixing Ratio and Process
Basic formula for space sand: 98% high-purity fine quartz sand (fully dried without moisture) + 2% silicone oil. Seal and blend evenly for 24 hours for use.
3. Advantages and Applicable Conditions of Hydroxy Silicone Oil
α,ω-dihydroxy polydimethylsiloxane, known as hydroxy silicone oil, carries hydroxyl groups at both molecular terminals, bringing the following benefits:
- Stronger adhesion: Hydroxyl groups bond better with sand grain surfaces, less prone to shedding
- Better shaping retention: Shapes can be maintained for much longer without collapsing
- Drier hand feel: Drier surface texture than ordinary dimethyl silicone oil with outstanding anti-moisture rebound performance
- Suitable for humid environments: Works excellently in summer or high-humidity areas
4. Precautions
- Hydroxy silicone oil is not a mandatory ingredient. Ordinary household space sand can achieve ideal effects with dimethyl silicone oil 201#.
- Viscosity selection: Silicone oil with viscosity ≤100cSt (too thin and prone to oil leakage) or ≥5000cSt (too thick and hard to mix uniformly) is forbidden for space sand production.
- Water-soluble silicone oil is unsuitable for space sand; it will lose efficacy and cause mold growth upon contact with water.
Summary
Hydroxy silicone oil can be adopted for space sand, especially for industrial mass production and products requiring superior shaping and dry texture. However, dimethyl silicone oil 201# (PDMS) is adopted in mainstream standard formulas.
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