Silicone (VMQ) Chemical Resistance Chart

Silicone rubber (VMQ) is known for its exceptional temperature range and flexibility. It's FDA-compliant for food contact and widely used in medical, food processing, and high-temperature applications. However, it has limited chemical resistance compared to other elastomers.

1600+ chemicals tested 20°C & 50°C data FDA compliant

When to Use Silicone

✅ Excellent For

• Extreme temperatures (-60°C to +230°C)
• Food and beverage contact (FDA)
• Medical/pharmaceutical applications
• Water and dilute salt solutions
• Ozone and UV exposure
• Electrical insulation

❌ Avoid With

• Concentrated acids and bases
• Most solvents (acetone, toluene, etc.)
• Fuels and oils
• Steam (causes reversion)
• Abrasive environments (low tear strength)
• Hydrocarbon gases

Chemical	Concentration	20°C	50°C
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Chemical

Concentration

20°C

50°C

About Silicone Rubber (VMQ)

Silicone rubber (VMQ - Vinyl Methyl Silicone) is a synthetic elastomer made from silicon, oxygen, carbon, and hydrogen. It's prized for its biocompatibility, temperature stability, and non-reactive nature in food and medical applications.

Key Properties

Temperature range: -60°C to +230°C (-76°F to +446°F)
Density: 1.1–1.6 g/cm³
Hardness: 10-80 Shore A
FDA 21 CFR 177.2600 compliant
USP Class VI biocompatible grades available

Common Applications

Food processing equipment seals
Medical devices and implants
Baby bottle nipples and kitchen utensils
High-temperature gaskets (ovens, HVAC)
Electrical insulation

Silicone vs Viton® vs EPDM

Silicone wins on temperature range and food safety but loses on chemical resistance.
Viton® handles fuels and oils but costs more and isn't food-safe.
EPDM excels with water and steam but can't match silicone's temperature range.