Silicone oil is a commonly used material for maintaining laboratory equipment, and its application principle is closely related to its unique physical and chemical properties. It has excellent chemical stability and is not prone to react with common acid-base reagents and organic solvents in the laboratory. It can form a stable protective layer on the surface of the equipment, which is the basis for its suitability in the laboratory environment.
In the maintenance of glass piston-type equipment, the lubricating and sealing properties of silicone oil play a crucial role. After long-term use of the equipment, the piston and the stopper are prone to develop gaps due to wear. When applying high-viscosity silicone oil, its molecules can fill the microscopic gaps, reducing the friction coefficient between metal or glass components, which not only prevents the piston from getting stuck but also prevents liquid leakage. At the same time, it prevents the stopper from being corroded by reagents.
For rubber sealing rings, silicone oil can delay their aging. Rubber is prone to hardening and cracking when exposed to air or organic solvents for a long time. Silicone oil can penetrate into the rubber and maintain its elastic molecular structure, forming an isolation film to prevent oxygen and chemical substances from eroding, thereby extending the service life of the sealing ring.
In the maintenance of optical equipment, low-viscosity silicone oil can be used as a dust and moisture-proof coating. It has good transparency and is not prone to adsorb dust. After application, it can form a uniform film on the optical surface, which does not affect the light transmittance and can prevent moisture from entering, preventing lens fogging or lens moldiness, and ensuring the stability of the equipment's optical performance.