STARTING WITH SAND
Silicone science started several million years ago, with common sand. Silicon as contained in sand and other minerals is the second most abundant element on earth. Sand, or silica, is the fine residue of quartz rock and is made up of the two most abundant elements in the earth's crust - oxygen and silicon. It makes up 94 % of the top 14 km of the earth's crust.
The name silicone is derived from the Latin silex, meaning "flint". In the Stone Age, quartz and silica-based stones were fashioned into tools to aid survival. The ancient Romans started turning sand into glass and from thereon the technological evolution was unstoppable.
Now, pure silicon is used to enhance the performance of literally millions 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. Commercial development began in the 1940's and has evolved continuously to keep pace with the demanding needs of our society.
