107 silicone rubber, known chemically as α,ω-dihydroxy polydimethylsiloxane, represents a fascinating case where industrial nomenclature diverges from strict chemical terminology. This material, while technically a high-viscosity hydroxy-terminated silicone oil, earned its numerical designation through historical developments in China's silicone industry.

The "107" designation originated during the early development stages of China's silicone sector in the mid-20th century. Researchers implemented a numerical classification system to organize various silicone products, and 107 became the permanent identifier for this particular type of room-temperature vulcanizing silicone rubber. Despite its chemical identity as a hydroxy silicone oil, its exceptionally high viscosity (typically ranging from thousands to tens of thousands of mPa·s) and rubber-like properties justified the "rubber" designation in its name.

This material features reactive hydroxy groups at both molecular chain ends and demonstrates remarkable properties including an extensive service temperature range (-60°C to 250°C), exceptional weather resistance, and outstanding electrical insulation properties (volume resistivity > 10¹⁵ Ω·cm). These characteristics make it particularly valuable for numerous applications across different industries.

In construction, 107 silicone rubber serves as the primary raw material for high-performance sealants and waterproofing materials. Its ability to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction while maintaining long-term sealing effectiveness has made it indispensable in modern building projects. The electronic industry utilizes this material for component potting and protection, leveraging its excellent insulation properties and temperature resistance to ensure device reliability in challenging environments.

The automotive manufacturing sector employs 107 silicone rubber in producing various high-temperature resistant components, including engine compartment seals and protective tubing. Additional applications span mold making, medical devices, and consumer products, demonstrating its versatility across multiple fields.

Manufacturing processes typically involve ring-opening polymerization of cyclosiloxanes, with octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4) serving as the primary raw material. Through carefully controlled reaction conditions including temperature, time, and catalyst concentration, manufacturers can produce materials with specific molecular weights and properties. Modern production has evolved from batch processing to continuous operations, significantly enhancing production efficiency and product consistency.

Contemporary research focuses on developing advanced variants through molecular modification and nanocomposite technologies. These innovations have yielded specialized materials with enhanced thermal conductivity, flame retardancy, and even self-healing capabilities. Simultaneously, environmental considerations drive development toward greener production methods and renewable raw materials.

The story of 107 silicone rubber illustrates how industrial terminology often evolves separately from precise chemical nomenclature. What began as a simple numerical identifier in laboratory records has become an established name in the silicone industry, representing both a specific material and a chapter in the history of industrial development. As technology advances, this numerically named material continues to find new applications while maintaining its importance in traditional sectors.