Cured Antibacterial Compound Based on Silicone Rubber and TiO2 and ZnO Nanoparticles

Vulcanizing elastomers is a main step, with a major impact on the final product properties. The amount and type of curing agent, curing time, temperature and pressure are important factors that control the degree of crosslinking and the final properties of the product. The vulcanization system used and required quantities of curing agents are selected based on the elastomer used and the envisaged characteristics. The uses of silicone rubber vulcanizates are vast, but they are preferred in medicine and food because relative to rubber mixtures based on other elastomers, they do not contain substances like antioxidants, accelerators, sulfur and other ingredients that are not permissible in terms of toxicology. The purpose of this paper is to develop a compound reinforced with TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles based on silicone rubber having antibacterial properties determined by the nature and chemical structure of the matrix and the dispersed phase, processing conditions and curing, using innovative technologies for the development of competitive products for the food and medical industries. These advanced materials and technologies will help improve product quality, environmental protection, human health, antibacterial and antifungal sterilization of products, increased turnover for companies and technological competitiveness at international scale.