The increased global demand for silicone elastomers is driven by the growing array of industries and applications that are finding value in silicone rubber over alternative materials. From the power utility industry to the automotive industry, this cross-industry transition towards silicones is augmented by higher performance, application temperature and chemical performance requirements as well as rising oil costs. This paper will discuss a variety of economic and industry trends driving the expansion of silicone rubber as well as growth supplemented by globalization and extensive development efforts in Eastern Europe, Asia and South America. Based on performance and testing already proven in industrialized nations, developing countries are rapidly accepting top technologies in a "generation leap" to silicones. Additionally, as customers transplant operations to these regions, they are looking for global partners with local expertise and access to supply chain partners, market landscape, regulations and standards.
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