Who invented silicones?
A combination of history and engineering led to the “invention” of silicones. In the 19th century pioneering chemists discovered how to gain silicon from sand. Silicon is the basis for silicones. Between 1904 and 1940 the Professor F S Kipping was the first to achieve extensive synthesis of silicone compounds and coined the name ‘silicone’ in recognition of similarities with the chemistry of carbon. His work was built on by James Franklin Hyde, who achieved the essential chemical synthesis that opened the way to commercial use of silicones. ยป What are silicones? Silicones are high performance polymers that can take a variety of physical forms, ranging from solids to water-thin liquids and semi-viscous pastes, greases and oils. They have literally revolutionised the performance of thousands of products that add quality to life in terms of enjoyment, comfort and safety. The major scientific advances that led to silicone production were made in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Commercia
