What are the differences in the effects of infrared radiation heating versus hot-air circulation heating on the uniformity of the crosslinked structure of the silicone adhesive layer?
This article compares differences between infrared radiation heating and hot-air circulation heating on crosslinked structure uniformity of silicone adhesive layer. Heat transfer mechanisms: hot-air is convection-conduction, gentle and progressive, creating moderate temperature gradient; IR is radiation-absorption with intense surface absorption (micrometers to millimeters) creating steep surface-to-interior gradient. Effects on crosslink density distribution: hot-air allows inner and outer portions to enter vulcanization temperature range nearly simultaneously, yielding uniform crosslink density along thickness; IR causes surface layer to cure instantly forming dense skin that hinders heat transfer, resulting in sharp gradient of crosslink density decreasing from surface inward.
