FAST RECOVERY SILICONE GELS

Abstract

Sealants, including silicone gels, compositions, and manufacturing methods, are provided for use in sealing telecommunications closures. The silicone gels are capable of sealing and resealing quickly, for example, within 5 minutes of closure.

Description

FAST RECOVERY SILICONE GELS CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of United States patent application serial number 62 / 942,594, filed on December 2, 2019, and claims the benefit of United States patent application serial number 63 / 013,992, filed on April 22, 2020, the descriptions of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. BACKGROUND Telecommunications systems typically employ a network of telecommunications cables capable of transmitting large volumes of data and voice signals over relatively long distances. Telecommunications cables may include fiber optic cables, electrical cables, or combinations of both. A typical telecommunications network also includes multiple telecommunications enclosures and interconnection systems integrated throughout the cable network. These enclosures and interconnection systems are typically sealed to prevent the ingress of moisture or other contaminants. Silicone gels are gels 1198485 of 109 thermosets that exhibit physical properties convenient for use as sealants in closure or interconnection systems. For example, U.S. patents 8,642,891 and 9,556,336, Berghmans et al., describe dry silicone gels suitable for use in sealing or interlocking systems. These dry silicone gels were developed without silicone oil to help prevent excessive oil leakage. Dry silicone gels can be prepared from a vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), a hydride containing a crosslinking agent, and a hydride containing a chain extender, for example, where the dry silicone gel has a hardness between 100 g and 300 g. The target hardness is necessary for the gel to function as a seal. One problem with dry silicone gels is that they exhibit long relaxation times and probably also a wide spectrum distribution of relaxation times. Dry silicone gels exhibit a relatively slow response when the gel forms into a gel block and is placed in a closure system. This means that the closure does not seal quickly after application. It is typical for a closure using a dry silicone gel to require up to 15 minutes or more to seal to 20 kPa, and in some cases (depending on the cable size), the 2 1198485 of 109 combinations and configurations), could require up to 2 hours to seal. It is advisable to provide a silicone gel for use on closures capable of sealing and resealing as quickly as possible, preferably within 5 minutes of closure. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Sealants, including silicone gels, compositions, and manufacturing methods, are provided for use in sealing telecommunications closures and interconnection systems. The silicone gels are capable of sealing and resealing quickly, for example, within 5 minutes of closure. A method for manufacturing a silicone gel is provided comprising: providing a first set of components comprising: (1) a base polymer having a vinyl-silicone group, (2) an additional curing catalyst, and optionally (3) a non-reactive silicone oil; providing a second set of components comprising: (1) a crosslinker, (2) an additional base polymer having a vinyl-silicone group, and optionally (3) a non-reactive silicone oil; mixing the first and second sets of components to form a silicone gel composition; and molding and curing the silicone gel composition. 1198485 of 109 to form the silicone gel. The second set of components may further comprise a chain extender. The silicone gel composition includes 10-60% by weight, 20-55% by weight, or 30-50% by weight of non-reactive silicone oil. The first and / or second set of components comprises the non-reactive silicone oil. Non-reactive silicone oil can be a trimethylsiloxy-terminated or silanol-terminated polydialkylsiloxane. Non-reactive silicone oil can have a viscosity of 10-30,000 cSt (10-30,000 mm² / s), 20-5,000 cSt (20-5,000 mm² / s), 50-1,000 cSt (50-1,000 mm² / s), or 50-350 cSt (50-350 mm² / s). The base polymer and the additional base polymer may each be a vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane. The base polymer and the additional base polymer may each have one or more of the following properties: (a) a molecular weight between 6000 g / mol and 170,000 g / mol; (b) a viscosity between 100 mm² / s and 165,000 mm² / s; and (c) a vinyl content between 0.01 eq / kg and 0.1 eq / kg. The silicone gel composition may include the base polymer and the additional base polymer in an amount of between 40–90 wt%, between 45–80 wt%, or between 50–65 wt%. The crosslinking agent can have >2 or <10 Si-H hydride groups per molecule. The crosslinking agent can have three or four Si-H hydride groups per molecule. The crosslinking agent can 1198485 of 109 to be selected from the group consisting of tetrakis(dimethylsiloxy)silane, methyltris(dimethylsiloxy)silane, phenyltris(dimethylsiloxy)silane and their combinations. The chain extender may have two Si-H hydride residues per molecule. In the silicone gel composition, the mole fraction of hydride present as a crosslinking agent (MFHC) may be from approximately 0.2 to approximately 0.5, or from approximately 0.3 to approximately 0.4. In the silicone gel composition, the hydride-to-vinyl ratio may be between approximately 0.8 and 1.0. The chain extender can be a hydride containing polydimethylsiloxane, hydride-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, hydride-terminated polyphenylmethylsiloxane, hydride-terminated polydiphenylsiloxane, a functionalized hydride-terminated silicone, and combinations thereof. The catalyst can be selected from the group consisting of a platinum complex with a divinyltetramethyldisiloxane complex and rhodium chloride. The weight percent ratio between the first set of components and the second set of components can be between approximately 47.5:52.5 and 52.5:47.5, 49:51 and 51:49, or approximately 50:50. The weight ratio between the first set of components and the second set of components can be between 1198485 of 109 approximately 1.10:1.0 and 1.0:1.10, 1.05:1.0 and 1.0:1.05, or approximately 1:1. The extended silicone gels of the description, after being under compression at 70°C for at least 56 days, exhibit compression hardening of <12%, <10%, <5%, or <4%, or 0 to 12%, 0 to 5%, or 0 to 4% after a recovery time of 24 hours at room temperature. The extended silicone gels of the description, after being under compression at 70°C for at least 56 days, exhibit compression hardening of <20%, <15%, or <12%, or 0 to 20%, 2 to 20%, or 4 to 12%, after a recovery time of 5 minutes at room temperature. Silicone gel may exhibit one or more of the following properties: (a) a hardness between 50 g and 200 g, or 60 and 150 g; (b) stress relaxation between 40% and 60% when the gel is subjected to a deformation of 50% of its original size; (c) compression hardening between 2% and 20% after the 50% deformation has been applied to the gel for 1000 hours at 70 °C; (d) compression hardening recovery of no more than 12% after 5 minutes; (e) no more than 15% excessive oil leakage after being under a compression of 1.2 atm for 21 days at 70 °C; (f) a Heos hardness of 80 g to 120 g; (g) a residual indentation hardness in the range of 20–150 g; (h) a compression hardening less than 1198485 of 109% after 30, 20 or 10 minutes of recovery time; (i) an elongation to failure of at least 500%; (j) an extrusion strength having a measured volume of not more than 0.5 cm3; and / or (k) an excessive oil outflow of less than 20% or 15% after 21 days at 120 kPa. A silicone gel is provided provided it is prepared from a silicone gel composition comprising: a base polymer having a vinyl-silicone group; a catalyst; a crosslinker; and a non-reactive silicone oil, and the silicone gel composition may further comprise a chain extender. The non-reactive silicone oil may be a trimethylsiloxy-terminated or silanol-terminated polydialkylsiloxane. The non-reactive silicone oil may be a trimethylsiloxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane. The non-reactive silicone oil may have a viscosity of approximately 10–30,000 cSt (10–30,000 mm² / s), 20–5,000 cSt (20–5,000 mm² / s), 50–1,000 cSt (50–1,000 mm² / s), or 50–350 cSt (50–350 mm² / s). The silicone gel composition may include approximately 10–60% by weight, 20–55% by weight, or 30–50% by weight of the non-reactive silicone oil. The base polymer and the additional base polymer may each be a vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane. The base polymer and the additional base polymer may 7 1198485 of 109 each having one or more of the following properties: (a) a molecular weight between 6000 g / mol and 170,000 g / mol; (b) a viscosity between 100 mm2 / s and 165,000 mm2 / s; and (c) a vinyl content between 0.01 eq / kg and 0.1 eq / kg. A sealing or interconnecting system comprising a silicone gel as described herein is provided, wherein the sealing or interconnecting system is capable of sealing within 5 minutes after opening and resealing to a pressure of 20 kPa. A sealant is provided for use in an enclosure to seal cable entry / exit locations. The sealant comprises a sealing material having: a residual slit hardness in the range of 20-150 g; a compression hardening of less than 10% after 20 or 10 minutes of recovery time; an elongation at failure of at least 500%; an extrusion resistance having a measured volume of no more than 0.5 cm³; and an excessive oil leakage of less than 20% or 15% after 21 days at 120 kPa. The sealing material may be a thermoset material. The sealant may be a silicone gel prepared from a silicone gel composition comprising: a base polymer having a vinyl-silicone group; a catalyst; a 1198485 of 109 crosslinking agent; a chain extender; and a non-reactive silicone oil. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 shows a graph of compression hardening versus recovery time for silicone gels from the description, which have three different hardness values: 80 g (A), 100 g (B), or 120 g (C). Each of the three gels exhibits rapid recovery from compression hardening to no more than 10% within 2 minutes and no more than 5% within 30 minutes. Closures made using the dry silicone gel formulations of the prior art failed this test, which typically requires up to 2 hours after opening and closing to reseal at a pressure of 20 kPa. Figure 2 shows a graph of excessive oil output for silicone oil gels that have 40% by volume. of non-reactive PDMS silicone extender oils at 50 cSt (A), 350 cSt (B), 1000 cSt (C) and 5000 cSt (D) for at least 37 days at 120 kPa at 70 °C. Each of the silicone gels A, B, C showed excessive oil output of no more than 15% by weight for a maximum of 21 days, and no more than 20% by weight for a maximum of 35 days. Figure 3 shows a graph of a theoretical stoichiometric curve comparing the hardness of a gel of 1198485 of 109 silicone as a function of the molar fraction of hydride content in the crosslinker (MFHC) and the hydride / vinyl (H / V) ratio. Figure 4 shows a photograph of an extrusion strength test device in which silicone gels extended with 40% of a silicone oil at 50 cSt, target hardness 80 g or 120 g, when under a pressure of 25 psi at 70 °C for 1 week (168 hours) exhibited gel bubbles ~7 mm in diameter (protruding ~5-6 mm from the device) or ~4 mm in diameter (protruding ~2-3 mm from the device). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Compositions and methods for preparing silicone gels suitable for use as sealants in closure and interconnection systems are provided. The silicone gels seal and reseal rapidly (within minutes) after closure. Unlike the dry silicone gels of the prior art, the silicone gels described herein exhibit rapid recovery from compression hardening to no more than 10% within 5 minutes, and no more than 5% within 30 minutes. In certain implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) gel terminated in 10 1198485 of 109 hydrosilation-cured vinyl. Additional information about said gel can be found in United States Patent No. 8,642,891, the description of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In one example, the gel can be manufactured by reacting a crosslinking agent, a chain extender, and a vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes a heat- or peroxide-cured vinyl-terminated PDMS gel. In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes a moisture- (and / or UV-) cured PDMS gel (various possible terminations, including silanol). In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes a moisture- (and / or UV-) cured silylated polyether gel (commonly “MS polymer”). In certain implementations, the gel material includes polyether- or polyester-based polyurethane gel.In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes chemically crosslinked polyacrylate (acrylic or methacrylate), for example, n-butyl acrylate or ethylhexyl acrylate with triethylene glycol dimethacrylate. In other 11. In 1198485 of 109 implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes ionicly or chemically crosslinked rubber gel. In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes chemically crosslinked thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) gel from the styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) family (crosslinking only in the polystyrene phase). In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes a physically crosslinked triblock polyacrylate gel (e.g., Kurarity®). In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes a physically crosslinked triblock olefin gel (e.g., Infuse).In other implementations, the sealant material for use in applications of the type described herein includes hybrid and / or multiple combinations of the above chemicals. Silicone gel compositions are provided for preparing silicone gels for use in waterproof closures or interconnection systems. As used in the present description, terms such as typically are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention or to imply that certain features 12 1198485 of 109 are not critical, essential, or even important to the structure or function of the claimed invention. Rather, these terms are simply intended to highlight alternative or additional features that may or may not be used in a particular aspect of the present invention. As used in the present description, the terms comprise, include, have, contain, and their variants, are intended to be open-ended transitional phrases, terms, or words that do not exclude the possibility of additional acts or structure. Any concentration range, percentage range, or ratio range quoted herein shall be understood to include concentrations, percentages, or ratios of any whole number within that range and fractions thereof, such as one-tenth and one-hundredth of a whole number, unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, any range of numbers quoted herein relating to any physical characteristic shall be understood to include any whole number within the quoted range, unless otherwise stated. The terms "a" and "an" as used above and throughout this description refer to one or more of the listed components. For example, "a" 1198485 of 109 polymer refers to a polymer or a mixture comprising two or more polymers. The term and / or refers to and encompasses each and every possible combination of one or more of the associated listed elements. As used in this description, the term “approximately” means within ten percent (10%) of the given value, either ten percent more than the given amount or ten percent less than the given amount, or both. As used in this description, the term composition refers to one or more of a compound, mixture, bond, alloy, polymer and / or copolymer. The term ambient temperature is defined as 15 to 25 degrees C, unless otherwise specified. The term centistokes (mm² / s, cSt) can be used as a measure of kinematic viscosity. Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. Kinematic viscosity differs from volumetric viscosity in that it is a measure of the volume flow rate of a liquid, defined as a stoke (St). One stoke is equal to 1 cm² / s or 10⁻⁴ m² / s. One centistoke, cSt = 0.01 St = 1 mm² / s. The kinematic viscosity of a liquid (stokes) can be converted to viscosity (poise) by multiplying it by the fluid's density. Unless... 1198485 of 109 Unless otherwise specified, the viscosity values ​​reported herein (cSt or mm2 / s) are for kinematic viscosity measured at 25 °C. Dynamic viscosity and density may be measured using ASTM D7042 test method. The kinematic viscosity values ​​reported herein may be ±10% for fluids with <100,000 cSt and ±15% for fluids with >100,000 cSt. The term centipoise (10⁻³ N s / m², cP) can be used as a measure of absolute viscosity. Perfect or ideal fluids offer no shear resistance and have zero consistency. Consistency is the resistance a real liquid offers to deformation. The dimensions of viscosity are force times area times time. The unit of viscosity is the poise (p) = 1 g / (cm)(s) and is a measure of the mass flow rate of a liquid. One poise is equal to 0.1 Pa·s in SI units. The conversion from absolute (dynamic) viscosity to kinematic viscosity depends on the fluid's density. cSt values ​​of 1–200,000 can be considered similar to cP for fluids with a density like water, or a specific gravity of 1. As provided in the present description, the intervals are intended to include, at least, the numbers that define the interval limits. 1198485 of 109 Unless otherwise specified, % values ​​refer to % by weight. The terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this description, specify the presence of established features, whole numbers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more additional features, whole numbers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Unless otherwise defined, all terms, including technical and scientific terms used in the description, have the same meaning commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this description pertains. In the event of conflicting terminology, this specification shall prevail. All patents, patent applications, and publications referenced herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. As used in this description, the term silicone gel refers to a chemically crosslinked polymer having a Si-O backbone. Unlike carbon-based polymers, the crosslinked silicone polymers of dry silicone gels are based on a Si-O backbone. The characteristics of silicon and oxygen give crosslinked polymers their exceptional properties. For example, silicon forms 16 1198485 of 109 stable tetrahedral structures and relatively strong silicon-oxygen bonds result in silicone gels with high-temperature resistance. Furthermore, crosslinked Si-O polymers have relatively high chain flexibility and a low rotational energy barrier. As used in the present description, the term silicone oil gel may refer to a silicone gel having a chemically crosslinked polymer with a Si-O backbone and comprising a quantity of added non-reactive diluent fluids such as silicone oil or mineral oil. As used in the present description, the term dry silicone gel may refer to a chemically crosslinked polymer having a Si-O backbone and comprising a relatively low amount, or no amount at all, of added diluent fluids such as silicone oil or mineral oil. Closure systems are used to protect internal components from degradation caused by external environments. For example, internal components such as fiber optic cables and copper wires are often enclosed in closure systems. Other closure systems are commercially available for use with communication and power transmission cables. Closure systems 1198485 of 109 typically include internal components such as fiber organizers, cable seals and termination devices, drop cable seals for a number of drops with drop cable termination devices, and universal splice fasteners for a number of splices. These internal components may be subject to environmental factors such as varying levels of humidity, heat and cold, and exposure to various chemicals. Closure systems are preferably protected against damage with a sealant of some type. Sealants are often used in sealing systems for insulation and protection against water, corrosion, and environmental degradation, as well as for thermal management. Suitable sealants or sealing systems may include thermoplastic gels or thermosetting gels. Thermosetting gels, such as silicone gels or polyurethane gels, can be used in sealing systems. Thermosetting gels can be produced by chemical crosslinking. The silicone gels described can be manufactured according to a number of different polymerization reactions with the addition of an additional non-reactive silicone oil. The polymerization reaction can be a hydrosilylation reaction, also called a hydrosilylation reaction. The hydrosilylation reaction can make use of a platinum catalyst, while other 18 1198485 out of 109 modalities make use of radicals. In some embodiments, the silicone gel is manufactured via a dehydrogenated coupling reaction. In other embodiments, the silicone gel is manufactured via a condensation-curing RTV reaction. Silicone gel can be manufactured by reacting at least one crosslinking agent, a chain extender, and a base polymer (e.g., a vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane) in the presence of non-reactive silicone oil. A catalyst may be included to accelerate the reaction. In further embodiments, an inhibitor may be used to slow the reaction rate. Illustrative components of silicone gels, their resulting properties, and their end uses are described in more detail below. Silicone gel can be manufactured using an additional curing mechanism or a platinum curing reaction. In some embodiments, the mechanism employs a catalyst. By using a catalyst, the activation energy of the reaction is reduced, and faster curing times at lower temperatures can be achieved. A schematic description of the platinum curing reaction mechanism is shown below in (I). (YO) 1198485 of 109 For the reaction in (I) to be possible, two functional groups must react with each other. In certain embodiments, the two functionalities are (1) the Si-H group and (2) the Si-vinyl group. These two functionalities can be provided by: (1) a base polymer, (2) a crosslinking agent, and (3) a chain extender. Base Polymer The Si-vinyl group can be provided by a base polymer such as a vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (otherwise referred to as V-PDMS), shown below in (II). In this example, the base polymer compound comprises a vinyl group at each end of the compound. (II) ch3ch3ch3h2c^=--s¡—o—s¡—o—s¡--^=ch2 IT| M ch3ch3ch3 The molecular weight of the base polymer can be controlled through anionic polymerization with an annular opening of 1198485 of 109 cyclic siloxanes in the presence of an alkali metal hydroxide of a volatile base (e.g., tetramethylammonium silanolate). Terminal capping of PDMS with a vinyl group may be required, so these groups are added to the polymerization mixture. V-PDMS, along with a chain extender, can be used to determine the molecular weight between different crosslinking sites. The base polymer containing vinyl, such as V-PDMS, can have different viscosities that affect the resulting silicone gel. In general, a high molecular weight V-PDMS can produce an uncured gel with a higher viscosity. In certain applications, a low molecular weight V-PDMS can improve processability. The V-PDMS used in silicone gel can have a viscosity between approximately 100 and 165,000 cSt (100-165 000 mm2 / s), between approximately 1000 and 100,000 cSt (1000-100,000 mm2 / s), between approximately 1000 cSt and 60,000 cSt (1000-60,000 mm2 / s), between approximately 3000 cSt and 7000 cSt (3000-7000 mm2 / s), or between approximately 4500 cSt and 5500 cSt (4500-5500 mm2 / s). Vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane can have an average molecular weight between approximately 6000 g / mol and approximately 170,000 g / mol, or between approximately 28,000 g / mol and approximately 72,000 g / mol. 1198485 of 109 finished in vinyl can have an average molecular weight of approximately 49,500 g / mol. The base polymer may contain between approximately 1 and 10 moles of vinyl per 500,000 g / mol of V-PDMS. In one embodiment, the base polymer contains approximately 2 moles of vinyl per mole of V-PDMS. In still other embodiments, the vinyl content of V-PDMS is between approximately 0.01 and 0.1 equivalents / kg, or between approximately 0.036 and 0.07 eq / kg, or between approximately 0.04 and 0.05 eq / kg. The base polymer can be a vinyl containing polydialkylsiloxane, polyalkylarylsiloxane, or polydialkylsiloxane, which includes vinyl polymers and copolymers. For example, the vinyl-containing base polymer can contain any of the following monomers: dimethyl, diethyl, vinylmethyl, diphenyl, phenylmethyl, trifluoropropylmethyl, nonafluorohexamethyl, dimethoxy, and diethyloxy. In addition to divinyl-terminated base polymers, alpha-vinyl- and omega-hydride-terminated polymers can be used as a substantial portion of the gel polymer. The amount of base polymer in the composition of the silicone gel can be between 40-90% by weight, between 45-80% by weight, or between 50-65% by weight. Reticulating 1198485 of 109 The terminal Si-H groups for the reaction in (I) can be provided by a crosslinker and / or a chain extender. A crosslinker is capable of forming links between vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane chains. In certain embodiments, the crosslinker includes electronegative substituents such as alkylsiloxy or chlorine. In some embodiments, the crosslinker may have three, four, or more Si-H groups capable of forming a link between three or four different vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane chains, respectively. The crosslinker may have four Si-H groups. For example, the crosslinker may be tetrakis(dimethylsiloxy)silane, shown below in (IIIa), or 1,3-diphenyltetrakis(dimethylsiloxy)disiloxane. In other embodiments, the crosslinking agent may include three Si--H hydride groups, for example, the crosslinking agent may be methyltris(dimethylsiloxy)silane, shown below in (IIIb), or phenyltris(dimethylsiloxy)silane.Other crosslinking agents can also be used. Higher functional crosslinking agents can also be used, but these form less defined polymer structures. CH3 H3CSiH CH3Och HSi----O---Si---OSiH CH3Och ch3 H3CSiH CH3O HSi----O---SiCH CH3O 1198485 of 109 Preferred crosslinkers may include Gelest SIT 7278 tetrakis(dimethylsiloxy)silane and Gelest SIP 6826 phenyltris(dimethylsiloxy)silane, but other hydride-based crosslinkers may also be used. For example, the crosslinker may include phenyltris(dimethylsiloxy)silane (e.g., CAS 18027-45-7) to improve the tear strength of the silicone gel. An alternative multifunctional vinyl crosslinker can be used to reduce the steepness of the hardness ratio curve. The advantage of the multifunctional vinyl crosslinker is that it can be placed on both sides A and B, since the multifunctional vinyl compound will not react with the hydride on side B without a platinum catalyst. The ability to place part of the multifunctional vinyl compound on side B and / or A allows the A-to-B ratio to remain close to 1.00 with varying hardness values, effectively flattening the hardness-to-ratio curve. The alternative crosslinker consists of any multifunctional vinyl compound such as 24 1198485 of 109 as a bis(divinyl) terminated polydimethylsiloxane, for example, Gelest DMS-VD11. Chain Extender In addition to the crosslinking agent, the terminal Si-H group can be provided by a chain extender, for example, where both ends of the chain extender compound terminate with a Si-H group. Any difunctional Si-H molecule with good solubility in the vinyl base can be suitable as a chain extender. For example, the chain extender can be a hydride-terminated PDMS. In practice, below a certain molecular weight, the dihydride can become too volatile. Chain extenders with molecular weights of approximately 400–500 g / mol, or approximately 450 g / mol, or higher, can be used. Higher molecular weight dihydrides can also be employed. For example, dihydrides of similar molecular weight up to the upper limit of the molecular weight range of the base polymer can be used, with some adjustment to account for the resulting differences in molecular weight between crosslinks.Chain extenders (dihydride functional molecules, F = 2) can be used when employing a low-viscosity, low-molecular-weight base polymer to increase the molecular weight between crosslinks. This is especially true when using higher molecular weight base polymers. 1198485 of 109 molecular (e.g., >80,000 G / mol), the chain extender may not be necessary. In certain embodiments, the chain extender comprises reactive groups that are compatible with and readily available to react with the vinyl groups in the base polymer. As with the crosslinking agent, these groups are Si-H groups that can undergo a hydrosylation reaction. The chain extender typically includes two functional groups; however, it can include three or more functional groups, in which case it functions as a branching agent. The functional groups may be the same as or different from each other. They may also be the same as or different from the functional groups of the first and / or second components. The chain extender can be any chain extender known in the art. In one embodiment, the chain extender is a hydride containing polydimethylsiloxane. In another embodiment, the chain extender can be a hydride-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, shown below in (IV). (IV) ch3ch3ch HSi----O--Si---OSiH I Ί M ch3ch3ch 1198485 of 109 The chain extender can be a hydride-terminated polyphenylmethylsiloxane. In another embodiment, the chain extender is a hydride-terminated polydiphenylsiloxane. In yet another embodiment, the chain extender is a siloxane-containing dihydride. For example, the chain extender can be a hydride-terminated PDMS having an average molecular weight of approximately 400 to approximately 62,700 g / mol; or approximately 400–500 g / mol, approximately 600–700 g / mol, approximately 1000–1100 g / mol, approximately 4000–5000 g / mol, or approximately 17,200 g / mol. about 28,000 g / mol; or approximately 62,700 g / mol. The chain extender can have a high or low molecular weight. It can also be branched or unbranched. In some embodiments, the chain extender is a high molecular weight polydimethylsiloxane. In other embodiments, the chain extender is a low molecular weight polydimethylsiloxane, with a molecular weight of 400–500 g / mol. Considering the full acceptable range of the vinyl-based polymer, the total dihydride content (based on the referenced molecule) could be up to 15–20%, which would be 100 cSt for the vinyl-based polymer. For vinyl-based polymers above ~40,000 cSt, the dihydride (chain extender) content could be much higher. 1198485 of 109 low, close to 0%. In some forms, silicone gel compositions can use even 0% chain extender. Optionally, an alkoxy-functionalized siloxane may be included. Suitable alkoxy-functionalized siloxanes include polydiethoxysiloxane, tetraethoxysilane, tetramethoxysilane, and polydimethoxysiloxane (DMS). In other embodiments, the chain extender may be a fluorosilicone, a phenylsilicone, or a branched diethylsilicone. In certain formulations, by using a chain extender molecule, the V-PDMS base polymer can be shorter because the H-PDMS chain extender extends the V-PDMS base polymer chain in situ between two crosslinking compounds. This mechanism allows for the application of a shorter V-PDMS chain, resulting in lower viscosities and easier-to-work compounds. Therefore, lower viscosity base polymer compounds can be used, unlike in a peroxide-activated curing reaction mechanism. For example, a peroxide-activated curing mechanism uses polymer chains with viscosities of approximately 2,000,000 cSt (2,000,000 mm² / s), while the platinum curing mechanism allows for base polymer chains (V-PDMS) with viscosities of approximately 5,000 cSt (5,000 mm² / s). 1198485 of 109 MFHC and H / V relationships The amounts of crosslinker and chain extender that provide the hydride component can vary. In certain formulations, the amount of hydride in the gel can be defined in terms of the mole fraction of the hydride present as the crosslinker (MFHC). For example, when the MFHC value is 0.3 or 30%, this means that 30% of the hydrides present in the system are part of the crosslinker, and the remaining 70% are provided by the chain extender. In certain formulations, the MFHC ratio can be altered to adjust the gel hardness (i.e., an increase in MFHC can increase hardness). In some formulations, the MFHC value can be greater than 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, or 0.5. In some formulations, the MFHC value is between 0.2 and 0.5. In others, the MFHC value is between 0.3 and 0.4. The total amount of hydride components in the gel can also vary. The ratio of hydride components to vinyl (e.g., provided by the base polymer) can be defined as H / V. In other words, H / V is the total moles of hydride (e.g., crosslinking and chain extender contributions) divided by the amount in moles of vinyl from the base polymer (e.g., V-PDMS) present. In certain embodiments, the silicone gel may have an H / V ratio between 0.5 and 1.0, or between 0.6 and 1.0. 1198485 of 109 between 0.7 and 1.0, between 0.8 and 1.0, or between 0.9 and 1.0. If the H / V ratio is greater than 1, this means that there are more hydride groups than vinyl groups present in the system. In theory, silicone gel will have maximum hardness where the H / V ratio is 1 (this is the theoretical point where all groups react with each other). However, in practice this is not always the case, and the maximum will be located in the vicinity of H / V equal to 1. The target gel hardness can be shaped by adjusting the stoichiometric formulation of components A (PDMS vinyl groups) and B (hydride groups of the crosslinking and extending chains). A theoretical representation of the relationship between silicone gel hardness and the H / V ratio is shown in Figure 3. In certain formulations, the region of interest (ROI) for the silicone gel comprises slightly fewer hydride groups than vinyl groups (i.e., the H / V ratio is less than but close to 1). This is because gels with H / V values ​​greater than 1 may experience undesirable post-hardening. Using the stoichiometric curve shown in Figure 3, the ratio of hydride groups to vinyl groups can be calculated to achieve a specific hardness. This value can then be used to determine the different quantities of reagents needed to produce a gel with the desired hardness. 1198485 of 109 addition of non-reactive silicone oil, the amount of crosslinker and / or chain extender may be increased to some extent from the calculated vinyl hydride ratio to achieve a target hardness. A schematic description of the reaction is represented in (V) below, where crosslinking compounds are represented by +, chain extender compounds are represented by =, and base polymer V-PDMS compounds are represented by. In certain embodiments, the chain extender must always connect two different base polymer compounds, or connect to a base polymer and terminate the chain at the opposite end. (V) In certain formulations, an additional curing catalyst is used to help the base polymer, crosslinker, and chain extender react. Performing the reaction without a catalyst is typically a resource-intensive process. 1198485 of 109 a lot of energy. Temperatures of 300 °C, or even higher, may be required in order to prevent the gel produced from having poor and inconsistent mechanical properties. The catalyst may include a Group VIII metal. In other embodiments, the catalyst comprises platinum. The platinum catalyst may be prepared according to methods described in the art, for example, Lewis, Platinum Metals Rev., 1997, 41, (2), 66-75, and U.S. Patent No. 6,030,919, incorporated herein by reference. In another embodiment, the catalyst is a homogeneous catalyst. In other embodiments, the catalyst is a heterogeneous catalyst. Examples of heterogeneous catalysts include platinum coated on carbon or alumina. The catalyst can be a Karstedt catalyst. This is a platinum catalyst made of Pt in complex with divinyltetramethyldisiloxane, shown below in (VI). (VI) 1198485 of 109 One advantage of this catalyst is that no heterogeneous reaction occurs; instead, the catalyst forms a colloid. Another advantage is that only a small amount (at the ppm level) is needed. This reduces the cost of the polymerization process. The catalyst can be a rhodium chloride complex, for example, rhodium chloride-tris(triphenylphosphine) (Wildkinson catalyst). Rhodium-based catalysts may require higher concentrations and higher reaction temperatures to be largely successful. However, poisoning is linked to reactivity; therefore, rhodium-based catalysts may be less easily poisoned than platinum catalysts. The catalyst can be an iron, cobalt, and nickel carbonyl derivative. For example, the catalyst could be dicobaltoctacarbonyl CO2(CO)8. High temperatures (e.g., >60 °C) should be avoided to prevent decomposition and deactivation of the catalyst. Compared to the Pt catalyst, 103 M is required here, whereas Pt is at 10-6 M or ppm levels. Furthermore, the reactivity is reduced by a factor of 5. The catalytic reaction mechanism can be a mechanism of Lewis. First, there is oxygen coordination to the catalyst in the presence of the crosslinking agent or chain extender. This stage is called the induction period. This gives 33 1198485 of 109 hydrogen and the platinum colloid. Next, the chain extender or crosslinker precedes the attack of the vinyl group. In doing so, an electrophilic complex is formed. The vinyl group (V-PDMS) then acts as a nucleophile. The combination of the vinyl group of the V-PDMS chain with the crosslinker or chain extender that was attached to the Pt catalyst gives the silicone product. The hydride is transferred to the second carbon of the vinyl group. The Pt colloid is then available to react a second time. Oxygen can be seen as a cocatalyst because the oxygen is not consumed in this reaction and the O-O bond is not broken in the reaction sequence. Catalysts must be isolated from compounds that can poison or otherwise impair their performance. For example, amines, thiols, and phosphates can poison a catalyst, such as a platinum-containing catalyst. Amines, thiols, and phosphates can form very stable complexes with a catalyst, thereby slowing down or stopping the reaction altogether. Inhibitor In certain applications, inhibitors are added to the silicone gel formulation to slow down the curing process. Slowing the curing process allows for... 1198485 of 109 more time to work with the polymer mix during processing, dispensing and molding. The inhibitor can bind to the catalyst and form a stable complex. This deactivates the Pt catalyst. When the complex is activated by the addition of energy (by increasing the temperature), the inhibitor loses its bond with the Pt catalyst. After this, the Pt catalyst returns to its activated state, and the polymerization reaction can begin. The inhibitor can help manipulate the gel before it fully cures and extend its shelf life. In certain formulations, the shelf life can be approximately 1 hour at room temperature and 6–8 hours at 3°C. In certain embodiments, the inhibitor comprises two electron-rich groups (an alcohol and an allyl group) that form an acetylenic alcohol. These groups can interact with the catalyst and protect it from other reactive groups. The inhibitor of a Pt catalyst can be 3,5-dimethyl-1-hexyne-3-ol, shown below in (VII). (VII) 1198485 of 109 The composition of silicone gel may include additional common components. For example, compositions may include additives such as flame retardants, colorants, adhesion promoters, stabilizers, fillers, dispersants, flow enhancers, plasticizers, slip agents, tensioning agents, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the additional additives may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of ethyl polysilicate (Dynasylan 40), diphenylsiloxone-dimethylsiloxane copolymer (PDM 1922), 1,2-bis(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxycinnamoly)hydrazine (Songnox 1024), Kingnox 76, DHT-4A, Kingsorb, pigment, and mixtures thereof. In some forms, the additives comprise between 0.1 and 25% by weight of the total composition, between 0.1 and 5% by weight of the total composition, between 0.1 and 2% by weight of the total composition, or between 0.1 and 1% by weight of the total composition. To improve tear resistance, silicone gels can be optionally hardened by incorporating silica (SiO2) reinforcement into the structure. The silica reinforcement can be fumed silica, precipitated silica, or a structurally modified silica reinforcement. Silica reinforcement can be used in the silicone gel at a concentration of 0–30% by weight, 1–25% by weight, or 5–20% by weight. For example, it can be 36 1198485 of 109 Hydrophobic fumed silica can be used to improve physical properties. Hydrophilic fumed silica can be used to modify the viscosity of components to produce shear-thinning behavior. The typical amount of fumed silica can be approximately 0–30 wt%, 10–25 wt%, or 2–20 wt%. For example, a structurally modified silica (e.g., silane-modified fumed silica, e.g., Aerosil R 8200) can be used to improve tear strength, for example, in the range of 0–30 wt%, 5–25 wt%, or 10–20 wt%. In some embodiments, the compositions described and the methods described herein comprise a flame retardant. In certain embodiments, the flame retardant is zinc oxide. In some embodiments, the flame retardant comprises from 0.1 to 25% by weight of the total composition, from 0.1 to 5% by weight of the total composition, from 0.1 to 2% by weight of the total composition, or from 0.1 to 1% by weight of the total composition. In one embodiment, the flame retardant comprises 20% by weight of the total composition of the gel. Non-reactive silicone oil The silicone gel composition may contain a non-reactive silicone oil fluid in the first and / or second set of components. The non-reactive silicone oil 37 1198485 of 109 may be an inert polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). For example, the non-reactive silicone oil may be a trimethylsiloxy-terminated PDMS or a silanol-terminated PDMS (Si-OH). Other inert silicone fluids may include diphenylsiloxane-dimethylsiloxane copolymer fluids, phenylmethylsiloxane-dimethylsiloxane copolymers, phenylmethylsiloxane homopolymers, phenylmethylsiloxane-diphenylsiloxane copolymers, alkyl silicones, arylalkyl silicones, and fluorosilicone. In some embodiments, the non-reactive silicone oil is a trimethylsiloxy-terminated PDMS, for example, as shown in (VIII). Non-reactive silicone oil can have a kinematic viscosity in the range of 10 cSt to 30,000 cSt, 20-5000 cSt, 50-1000 cSt, or 50-350 cSt at 25 °C.Non-reactive silicone oil can be a trimethylsiloxy-terminated PDMS that has a kinematic viscosity of approximately 50, approximately 100, approximately 200, or approximately 350 cSt at 25 °C. (VIII) ch3 1 r οη3ί ch3 1 h3c—s¡—o— —Si— -o—Si—ch3 I ch3 L CH3 n CH3 The silicone gels described can be prepared by incorporating 10-60%, 20-55%, or 30-50%, 35-45%, or approximately 40% by volume of a fluid of 1198485 of 109 non-reactive silicone oil. The levels of non-reactive silicone oil fluid may differentiate the silicone gels of the present description from certain prior art, which contain approximately 65% ​​or more by volume of fluid and were much lower in hardness and not nearly as strong. In some embodiments, the compositions described and manufactured by the methods outlined herein contain at least one stabilizer. Stabilizers include antioxidants, acid scavengers, light and UV absorbers / stabilizers, heat stabilizers, metal deactivators, free radical scavengers, carbon black, and antifungal agents. Silicone Gel Manufacturing The silicone gel can be prepared by mixing a first set of components, by mixing a second set of components, and then by mixing the two sets of components. A non-reactive silicone oil fluid is added to at least one of the first and / or second sets of components (sides A and / or B). The first set of components may comprise a mixture of the base polymer (e.g., V-PDMS) with the catalyst and a silicone oil. The second set of components may comprise a mixture of the crosslinker and the chain extender. 1198485 of 109 The second set of components may further comprise the mixture of the additional base polymer, optionally a non-reactive silicone oil, and in some embodiments, an inhibitor. In some embodiments, the first and / or second set of components may further comprise the mixture of at least one of the additives described above. The first set of components may include the base polymer, a catalyst, and optionally, non-reactive silicone oil. The amount of catalyst present in the first set of components may be between 0.01–1% by weight, between 0.03–0.1% by weight, or approximately 0.06% by weight. The amount of the base polymer in the first set of components can be between 40-99% by weight, between 40-90% by weight, between 45-80% by weight, or between 50-65% by weight. When the first set of components is present, the amount of a non-reactive silicone oil can be between 10-60% by weight, 20-55% by weight, or 30-50% by weight. With regard to the second set of components, the initial amount of crosslinking agent can be between 0-20% by weight; between 0.001-10% by weight; 0.005-5% by weight; between 0.01-1% by weight; between 0.02-0.5% by weight; between 0.05-0.3% by weight; or between 0.075-0.125% by weight. The amount of chain extender in the second set of components can be between 0-15% by weight; between 0.1-10% by weight; between 0.5-5%. 1198485 of 109 by weight; between 1-3% by weight; or between 1.5-2.5% by weight. The amount of optional inhibitor in the second set of components may be between 0-1.5% by weight, between 0.01-1% by weight, or between 0.03-0.5% by weight. The amount of base polymer in the second set of components may be between 40-99% by weight, between 40-90% by weight, between 45-80% by weight, or between 50-65% by weight. When the second set of components is present, the amount of a non-reactive silicone oil may be between 10-60% by weight, 20-55% by weight, or 30-50% by weight. The combined amount of crosslinking agent and chain extender in the total silicone gel composition can range from 0.01–20% by weight, from 0.05–15% by weight, from 0.08–10% by weight, from 0.1–5% by weight, from 0.5–3% by weight, or approximately 1.25% by weight. The amount of base polymer in the total silicone gel composition can range from 40–90% by weight, from 45–80% by weight, or from 50–65% by weight. The amount of non-reactive silicone oil in the total silicone gel composition can range from approximately 10–60% by weight, from 20–55% by weight, or from 30–50% by weight. Non-reactive silicone oil can be added to the first set of components and to the second set of components in equal portions, or to both sides in unequal portions. 1198485 of 109 or only on one side. In one version, the oil is added to both sides in an equal portion. The hardener, or curing agent, is a multihydride functional molecule or a mixture of multihydride functional molecules, either of which may or may not contain an inhibitor (this is only a processing concern). Multihydride molecules (having Si-H functionalities, F > 2) are used to perform the crosslinking and generate elasticity and hardness. Generally, multihydride crosslinkers with F < 10 are used, with F = 4 or 3 being the maximum preference. The amount of hardener required varies based on the vinyl content, oil content, and other factors. Chain extenders (dihydride functional molecules, F = 2) are used when using a low-viscosity, low-molecular-weight base polymer, where the objective is to increase the molecular weight between crosslinks. When using higher molecular-weight base polymers (e.g., > 80,000 g / mol), a chain extender may not be strictly necessary.The inhibitor can be used when a longer working time is needed for processing the A+B mixture. Silicone gel can be prepared by mixing the first set of components with the second set of components. In one embodiment, the weight ratio of the mixture of the first set of components to the second set is 42 The weight ratio of the 109 components in this formulation is approximately 1:1. In another embodiment, the weight ratio of the mixture is between approximately 47.5:52.5 and 52.5:47.5. Adjusting the ratio slightly can cause large differences in the overall hardness of the silicone gel. For example, in certain embodiments, when the ratio is 52.5:47.5 between the first and second sets of components (where the second set of components comprises V-PDMS, crosslinker, chain extender, and inhibitor), the hardness may be less than the hardness of the same composition at a 1:1 mixing ratio. Additionally, in certain embodiments, when the ratio is 47.5:52.5 between the first and second sets of components, the hardness may be greater than the hardness of the same composition at a 1:1 mixing ratio. In one example, the hardness can be approximately 72 g in the 52.5:47.5 ratio, 140 g in the 1:1 ratio, and approximately 210 g in the 47.5:52.5 ratio.In other words, a 2.5% variation can affect the gel's hardness by up to 70 g. Therefore, the weighing procedure during the preparation of the gel composition is preferably carried out with high precision. Uses and Properties of Silicone Gel The silicone gels described herein can be used in a number of end uses due to their improved properties, such as improved performance 43 1198485 of 109 in mechanical stresses (e.g., vibration and shock) or the ability to seal irregular or complex structures (due to the ability to flow and conform to the area of ​​the structure), and reduced compression hardening recovery times (the ability to seal quickly after closure). In certain embodiments, silicone gels can be used in an interconnection, coating, or sealing system. In particular, silicone gel can be used in a fiber optic seal, electrical sealant, or electrical closure. In some embodiments, silicone gels are used as gel wraps, gel shells, or gel caps. In additional embodiments, silicone gels are used inside a residence. In other embodiments, silicone gels can be used outside a residence. The use of silicone gel within a closure or interconnection system can allow a reduction in the number of components, frame size, or cost compared to other sealing mechanisms. Silicone gel can be used as a flame retardant sealant. In one embodiment, the silicone gel comprises a flame retardant additive (e.g., zinc oxide) in order to function as a flame retardant sealant. Silicone gel can be used in a closure system. In certain embodiments, the closure system comprises a 44 1198485 of 109 housing, a cable and a silicone gel. In some models, the cable may be a low smoke halogen-free LSZH cable. Sealing materials can be defined by properties such as hardness, compression hardening, extrusion resistance, elongation at failure, and oil leakage properties. Examples of value ranges for each property and test procedures for measuring these values ​​for sample materials are described below. Hardness of the Cleft The sealant material can be tested for crevice hardness using a texture analyzer that includes a load cell and a probe assembly. The load cell can be motor-driven or bidirectional. The probe assembly includes a stainless steel ball probe approximately 6.35 mm (0.25 in) in diameter. The load cell has a minimum resolution of 0.20 g and a full span ratio (FSR) accuracy of ±0.5%. The load cell has a trigger point of approximately 4 g (grams of force). An example of a suitable texture analyzer for hardness testing is the Brookfield CT3 Model 1500, offered by Brookfield Engineering Laboratories, Inc. of Middleboro, MA. 1198485 of 109 During the test, the material to be tested is placed in a cup beneath the probe assembly. The cup is made of aluminum and filled with 51 grams of the material to be tested. The material in the cup is bubble-free. The cup has a frustoconical internal shape with a major internal diameter of 50 millimeters at an open upper end, a minor internal diameter of 45 millimeters at a closed lower end, and a depth of 30 millimeters between the upper and lower ends. The load cell directs the probe assembly vertically into a sample of the material at a speed of 2 mm / s to a depth of 4 mm. The load cell holds the probe assembly at the depth of 4 mm for 1 hour. The indentation hardness is measured (in grams) as the maximum and residual forces applied by the load cell to the probe assembly. The maximum hardness is measured instantaneously when the probe assembly is at the preset depth from the trigger point. The residual hardness is measured at the preset depth after the preset time period has elapsed. For example, the residual hardness might be measured after 1 hour (3600 seconds). In some examples, a mean and standard deviation are calculated for the force measurements. 1198485 of 109 maximum and residual strength. In one example, a sealing material suitable for use in the gel sealing applications described herein has a residual cleavage hardness in the range of 20 g (grams of force) to 150 g 50 g 130 g after 1 hour. Compression hardening The sealant material can be tested for compression hardening under constant deflection in air. In some examples, the material is tested using ASTM D395, Method B. The material to be tested is formed into a cylindrical sample. The cylindrical sample has a diameter of approximately 20 mm and a height of approximately 20 mm. The test is performed using an oven (e.g., with air circulation) and a compression fitting. The compression fitting includes compression plates, spacers, and components for compressing the plates. The compression plates are arranged vertically, so the compression fitting has upper and lower compression plates. The compression plates and spacers are made of steel. The plates measure 150 mm long x 150 mm wide x 12.5 mm high. The spacers measure 25 mm wide x 10 mm high. Each spacer has a central hole of 8 mm. 1198485 of 109 components for compressing the plates include screws and nuts. The screws are 10 mm long. During the test, the specimen (e.g., the cylindrical specimen) is placed in the compression fixture between the upper and lower compression plates so that the specimen's height extends along an axis between the upper and lower plates. Nuts and bolts are tightened to bring the compression plates together and compress the specimen. Spacers are placed between the compression plates to limit the compression of the specimen. In some cases, the compression plates are moved relative to each other (e.g., the upper plate moves toward the lower plate, the lower plate moves toward the upper plate, or both plates move relative to each other) until the compression plates are separated by a height equal to the spacers. For example, the specimen can be compressed to a height of approximately 10 mm by using 10 mm high steel spacers. The compressed sample is placed in the oven at a preset temperature for a preset period of time. In some examples, the compression attachment and the sample are placed in the oven. The compression attachment contains the compressed sample while it is in the oven. The compressed sample remains in the oven for a preset period of time, such as 22 hours, while the oven maintains 1198485 of 109 an internal temperature of 70 °C. The preset time period for sample compression can be, for example, 22 hours, 7 days, 14 days, 21 days or 56 days. The heated sample and compression fitting are removed from the oven after the preset time period. Before opening, the compression fitting is allowed to cool to room temperature. The upper compression plate is then removed from the sample to allow for sample retrieval. For example, nuts and bolts may be loosened and / or removed to allow the upper compression plate to be removed from the sample. The height of the sample can be measured after a predetermined recovery time, for example, 5 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 3 hours, 24 hours, 48 ​​hours, or 100 hours. The percentage of compressive hardening is calculated using the following equation: (OH - PH) (1) Compression hardening = (qhTsÍ-Í)xwhere OH is the original height of the sample, PH is the height of the sample after testing and recovery, and SH is the height of the separator. In one example, a sealing material is provided as long as it is suitable for use in the gel sealing applications described herein. In some embodiments, the sealing materials have a 49 1198485 of 109 compression hardening of less than 10% after 20 minutes of recovery time, or less than 10% after 10 minutes of recovery time, or less than 5% after 60 minutes of recovery time, or less than 5% after 30 minutes of recovery time. In some forms, a sealing material is provided as long as it exhibits compressive hardening in the range of 0-20%, 2-20%, 2-10%, or no more than 12%, no more than 10%, no more than 5%, or no more than 4% after 24 hours of recovery time. In some forms, a sealing material is provided as long as it exhibits compression hardening in the range of 0-20%, 2-20%, 2-10%, or no more than 12%, no more than 10%, no more than 5%, or no more than 4% after 24 hours of recovery time for a sample after 7 hours, 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, or 56 days of sample compression time. In some forms, a sealing material is provided as long as it exhibits compression hardening in the range of 0-10%, 0-5%, 0-4%, or no more than 5%, or no more than 4% after 24 hours of recovery time for a sample after 22 hours of compression time of the sample. In some forms, a sealing material is provided as long as it exhibits a compression hardening of 50 1198485 of 109 an interval of 0-10%, 0-5%, 0-4%, or not more than 5%, or not more than 4% after 24 hours of recovery time for a sample after 7 days of sample compression time. Extrusion Resistance The sealant material can be tested for extrusion resistance using an extrusion fixture, a pneumatic cylinder, and an oven (e.g., a circulating air oven). The extrusion fixture includes a body that defines an internal test chamber and an extrusion plate that selectively coats one end of the test chamber. The test chamber is cylindrical and has a diameter of 25 mm. The extrusion plate, which closes one end of the test chamber, defines a 4 mm circular opening at its center, allowing fluid communication with the test chamber. An illustrative test chamber is shown in Figure 4. The material to be tested is formed into a cylindrical sample with a diameter of 25 mm and a height of 25 mm. During the test, the sample is placed inside the cylindrical test chamber, and the extrusion plate is placed over the first end of the test chamber. An aluminum cup is placed outside the extrusion device, below the circular opening. 1198485 of 109 A compression plate is placed behind the sample at the opposite end of the test chamber. The compression plate is round with a diameter of 25 mm. It is a low-friction plastic plate. A pneumatic cylinder is operationally coupled to the compression plate to move it relative to the extrusion attachment. Specifically, the compression rods of the pneumatic cylinder make contact with the plastic compression plate. The pneumatic cylinder is energized and pressurized so that it applies a pressure of 200 kPa to the sample. The pressurized sample and the pneumatic cylinder are placed in the oven at 70 °C. Materials that are not extrudable will fall into the aluminum cups. Materials that are extrudable will protrude outside the opening in a bulbous extrusion. If no part of the sample falls into the aluminum cup, the pressure on the sample is released after a period of time, for example, after 24 hours or 168 hours. The sample is then allowed to be recovered without pressure and allowed to return to room temperature. Once the sample has returned to room temperature, the volume (if any) that remains extruded in a protrusion outside the extrusion plate is measured. In some 1198485 of 109 examples, suitable materials will have a measured volume of no more than 0.5 cm3, or no more than 0.25 cm3 or 0 cm3. Elongation to Failure The sealant material can be tested for tensile elongation using ASTM D638. For example, the material can be tested using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM), such as a Universal Testing System offered by Instron of Norwood, MA. The UTM includes a 2 kg load cell and two cylindrical rods. Each cylindrical rod is 6 mm in diameter and made of steel. The rods are oriented horizontally, with the lower rod attached to a stationary base of the UTM and the upper rod attached to the load cell. Consequently, the lower rod remains stationary relative to the base, while the upper rod is movable relative to the lower rod by means of the load cell. The material to be tested is cut into rings with an outer diameter of 30 mm and an inner diameter of 20 mm. The rings are 3-4 mm thick. During the test, the rings are positioned so that the upper and lower rods extend into the rings. The load cell moves at a speed of 50 mm / min. Consequently, the upper rod moves away from the lower rod at that speed. When rod 53 moves 1198485 of 109 above, the UTM measures a force applied to the upper rod against the extension curve of the ring. From these measurements, the elongation at failure is calculated. The elongation at failure is calculated based on the initial length (approximately 31.5 mm) of the ring. In certain examples, suitable materials will have an elongation at failure of at least 500% or 800% of the initial sample length. Excessive oil output The sealing material can be tested for excessive oil leakage to determine the oil loss of the material under pressure. The material to be tested is shaped into multiple cylindrical samples, each with a diameter of 14 mm and a thickness of 3–4 mm. The test is performed using a test block, three coarse sieves (0.16 mm² mesh), three fine sieves (0.01 mm² mesh), three pistons, three weights, an analytical balance, and an oven. The test block defines three test cavities with open upper ends. Each test cavity is sized to receive one of the cylindrical specimens through its open top end. The weights are molded to fit partially into their respective test cavities through their open top ends. 1198485 of 109 During the test, the initial weight of each sample is measured. Each sample is placed on its respective fine sieve. Then, each sample and its corresponding fine sieve are placed on its respective coarse sieve. The sieves support the samples while allowing the separation of low molecular weight material. Each sample and its corresponding sieve are placed inside one of the defined cavities in the test block. A piston is placed on each sample within its respective test cavity. A weight is placed on each piston to apply a pressure of 120 kPa to the sample. The weight is shaped so that a portion of it extends downward into the test cavity through its open top end. The test block, sieves, samples, pistons, and weights form a test assembly. The test assembly is placed in a circulating air oven at a temperature of 70 °Celsius. At regular intervals, the test assembly is removed from the oven and the samples are removed from the test block. The samples are dried on cleaning paper and weighed on an analytical balance. After weighing, the samples are replaced in their respective test cavities and the weights are replaced on top of the samples. The test assembly is then returned to the oven. These intervals 55 1198485 of 109 regulars are repeated until at least 500 hours have passed or the sample weights have stabilized. In some examples, the sample weight of suitable materials measured at 500 hours will be greater than or equal to 80% of the initial weight (e.g., less than 20% excess oil output), or greater than or equal to 85% of the initial weight (e.g., less than 15% excess oil output), or greater than or equal to 90% of the initial weight (e.g., less than 10% excess oil output). In some applications, the silicone gel can be used in a closure or interconnection system that is compatible with the cable, for example, a low-smoke, halogen-free (LSZH) cable. In certain applications, compatibility is assessed by subjecting the sample to one or more mechanical or environmental tests to verify specific functional requirements. In some applications, compatibility is assessed by passing a pressure loss test, a tensile test, and / or a visual appearance test. In certain applications, the silicone gel is compatible within the closure or interconnection system. The voltage can be verified under International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Test 61300-2-38, Method A, and IEC Test Qc 60068-2-17. In certain configurations, the voltage is tested by immersing the specimen in a water bath and using an internal pressure of 20–40 kPa (0.256 1198485 of 109 0.4 atm) for 15 minutes. It is important to measure the voltage immediately after installing the seal at a temperature of -15 °C or 45 °C. It is also important to remove all air bubbles present on the outside of the seal. If a continuous stream of air bubbles is observed, it means that the specimen is not properly sealed and will be considered a failure (i.e., non-compliant). Pressure loss can be tested under IEC test 61300-238, Method B. In certain modalities, the gel and cable are compatible if the pressure difference before and after the test is less than 2 kPa (0.02 atm). The visual appearance can be tested under IEC test 61330-3-1 by examining the product with the naked eye for defects that may adversely affect product performance. The sample may be subjected to various mechanical and / or environmental conditions before undergoing tensile, pressure loss, visual, and other tests. In certain modalities, compatibility is determined by subjecting the sample to one or more of the following mechanical tests: axial tensile test, flexural test, reintroduction test, and torsion test, and / or one or more environmental tests: aggressive media resistance test, stress cracking resistance test, and fog test. 1198485 of 109 saline, temperature cycle test and water head test. The specimen may be subjected to an axial tensile test in accordance with IEC 61300-2-4. In this test, the specimen may be internally pressurized to 20 kPa (0.2 atm) or 40 kPa (0.4 atm) at room temperature and sealed. The base assembly is secured, and a force is applied to each extension cable individually. If the specimen has an outside diameter of 7 mm or less, then the force applied per cable is equal to (outer diameter / 45 mm) * 500 Newtons (N). This force is applied for 15 minutes for each cable and is built up to IEC 61300-2-4. If the specimen has an outside diameter greater than 7 mm, then the force applied per cable is equal to (outer diameter / 45 mm) * 1000 N, with a maximum of 1000 N applied. This force is applied for one hour. Next, the internal pressure is examined to determine the pressure loss.In certain configurations, the gel and cable are compatible if the pressure drop is less than 2 kPa (0.02 atm). Additionally, in certain configurations, the gel and cable are compatible if the cable displacement is less than 3 mm. In other configurations, the specimens are also subjected to the tensile test described above. 1198485 of 109 The compatibility of the sample can be assessed by subjecting it to a bending test in accordance with IEC test 61300-2-37. In this test, the samples are subjected to temperatures of -15 °C and 45 °C. The samples are internally pressurized to 20 kPa or 40 kPa (0.2 atm or 0.4 atm) and sealed. The cables are individually bent at an angle of 30 degrees (or a maximum force of 500 N is applied) on each side of the neutral in the same plane. Each bending operation is held for 5 minutes. The cable returns to its original position, and the procedure is then repeated in the opposite direction. After 5 cycles on each cable, the samples are visually inspected for appearance, conditioned to room temperature, and subjected to a tensile test.In some modalities, the gel and LSZH wire are compatible if the specimen passes the visual appearance test, the pressure loss test (i.e., less than 2 kPa (0.02 atm)), and / or the tension test. The compatibility of the sample can be measured by subjecting the sample to a reintroduction test in accordance with IEC test 61300-2-33. In certain configurations, reintroduction can be simulated after a specified temperature cycle time. To complete this test, the seal must be removed from the cycling chamber and tested under voltage. After this, a 59 test can be performed. 1198485 of 109 Reintroduction. In this test, a dummy plug or wire is removed from the closure and another dummy plug or wire is added. The tension is then measured again. Reintroduction is successful if the closure passes the tension test again. Another mechanical test may be used to determine compatibility. The sample may be subjected to a twist test in accordance with IEC 61300-2-5. After completion of the twist test, the gel and cable may be considered compatible if the sample passes the visual inspection test, the pressure loss test, and / or the tensile test. In other configurations, compatibility is measured by performing an environmental temperature cycling or accelerated aging test under IEC Test No. 61300-2-22 and 60068-2-14. In one configuration, the temperature cycling test is performed on the cable jacket between the gel blocks by cycling the temperature between -40 °C and 70 °C for 10 days, with two cycles between the extreme temperatures per day. In some configurations, humidity is not controlled, the dwell time is four hours, and the transition time is two hours. In certain configurations, the cable jacket is tested for tensile strength retention, ultimate elongation, tension, visual appearance, and / or reintroduction. Additionally, in certain configurations, 60 1198485 of 109 After the temperature cycle test, the tension of the closures must be tested after conditioning at room temperature for a minimum of 2 hours. Therefore, in certain modalities, the gel and the cable, for example, the LSZH cable, are compatible if the specimen passes the tension test. In another method, compatibility is determined by subjecting the sample to a resistance test in aggressive media according to EEC test 61300-2-34, ISO 1998 / I, and EN 590. The sample is considered compatible if it subsequently passes the tensile and / or appearance test. In yet another method, compatibility is determined by subjecting the sample to a stress cracking resistance test according to IEC test 61300-2-34. The sample is considered compatible if it subsequently passes the stress test and / or shows no visible signs of cracking. In other methods, compatibility is determined by subjecting the sample to a salt spray test according to IEC Test Ka, 61300-2-36 and 60068-2-11. The sample is considered compatible if it subsequently passes the voltage and / or appearance test. In some models, compatibility is determined by subjecting the sample to a waterhead test according to the 1198485 of 109 IEC test 61300-2-23, Method 2. The sample is considered compliant if there is no water ingress. A challenge in formulating a gel that behaves as described is to crosslink the gel so that it has good mechanical properties (relatively high strength and elongation) but that it is not too difficult to close the opening around the round cross-section of the cable without requiring excessive force to close the closure. This property of the gel is characterized by its hardness. For example, in some embodiments, the silicone gel may exhibit a hardness as described above, or a hardness in the range of 26 to 53 Shore OOO, or 100 to 300 g, as measured according to methods known in the art. In other embodiments, the silicone gel has a hardness in the range of 26 to 42 Shore 000, or 100 to 200 g. In other forms, the silicone gel has a hardness in the range of 26 to 37 Shore OOO, or from 100 to 160 g. In certain models, the Shore hardness gauge is measured according to ISO868 or ASTM D2240. Hardness can also be measured using a texture analyzer, as described above. For example, a Brookfield LFRA Texture Analyzer may include a probe assembly attached to a motor-driven, bidirectional load cell. In such a system, the probe is directed vertically toward the sample at a preset speed.62 1198485 of 109 to a predetermined depth. Hardness is the amount of force required to push the probe into the test sample. For the silicone gel described, the characteristic hardness of interest may be the force measured 60 seconds after the 6.35 mm spherical probe is pushed into the gel to a depth of 4.0 mm. The 60-second hardness value, H60s, should not exceed 350 g. The preferred H60s hardness range is less than 200 g, and the maximum preference is less than approximately 120 g. Similarly, to obtain acceptable mechanical properties and the ability of the closure to open and reseal, a minimum 60-second hardness of approximately 40 g is required. The silicone gels in the description exhibit an H60s hardness in the range of 40 to 350 g, 45 to 300 g, 50 to 200 g, 60 to 150 g, 70 to 130 g, 80 to 120 g, or 105 to 115 g. In some procedures, the gel is compressed to a certain deformation or strain (for example, in some procedures, to 50% of its original size). This causes stress on the material. The stress then decreases as the material relaxes. In certain procedures, the stress relaxation of the silicone gel can range from 30% to 60% when subjected to tensile deformation or strain of approximately 50% of the gel's original size, where stress relaxation is measured after a retention time of one minute at 50% of the original size. 1198485 of 109 deformation. In other modalities, the stress relaxation of the silicone gel is between 40% and 60% when subjected to a tensile deformation of approximately 50%. Greater stress relaxation indicates that once a gel is installed in a closure, the gel will require less stress in order to seal. For a further example, in some forms, the compressive hardening, measured after a 50% strain is applied for 1000 hours at 70°C, may range from 2% to 20%. In other forms, the compressive hardening, measured after a 50% strain is applied for 1000 hours at 70°C, may range from 2% to 10% after a 30-minute recovery time when measured according to a modified version of ASTM D395, Method B. The compression recovery test is a measure of how quickly the gel responds after being exposed to external stress or a change in shape. Compression hardening recovery can be determined as described above for samples originally compressed to 50% at 70°C for 22 hours, followed by cooling and release of compression, for example, as shown in Figure 1. 1198485 of 109 The prior art dry silicone gels of U.S. patents nos. 8,642,891 and 9,556,336, Berghmans et al. exhibited a slow recovery of compression hardening, with approximately 60% of the compression hardening recovered at 5 minutes and approximately 30% at 30 minutes. In contrast, Figure 1 shows a graph of compression hardening versus recovery time for three silicone gels representative of the description, having three different hardness values: 80 g (A), 100 g (B), or 120 g (C). Each of the three gels exhibited rapid recovery of compression hardening to no more than 10% within 5 minutes and no more than 5% within 30 minutes. Silicone dry gel compositions comprising a vinyl-containing base polymer, a crosslinker, a chain extender, and a non-reactive silicone oil are provided. For example, the silicone gels described can be manufactured from a composition comprising a divinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane as a base polymer, a chain extender, a crosslinker, and 10–60 wt% of a non-reactive PDMS silicone fluid. The non-reactive silicone oil can be a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) oil or a trimethylsiloxy-terminated silicone oil. The addition of non-reactive silicone fluid The 1198485 of 109 reagent plus the added chain extender and crosslinking agent significantly reduced the compression hardening recovery rate of the original dry silicone gel while maintaining the same gel hardness as described in U.S. Patents Nos. 8,642,891 and 9,556,336, Berghmans et al. Prior art dry silicone gel samples tested under similar conditions required several hours to return to less than 10% compression hardening, whereas the silicone gel prepared from the compositions described typically showed less than 10% compression hardening in approximately 30 minutes, 20 minutes, 10 minutes, or even 5 minutes for the improved formulation. In some modalities, the silicone gel formed from a composition of the description may not exhibit more than % or no more than 10% excessive oil leakage over a period of time when the gel is under compression of 120 kPa (1.2 atm) at 70 °C. In certain embodiments, excessive oil leakage is measured on a wire mesh, where oil loss can escape from the gel through the mesh. The weight of the gel sample is recorded before and after the pressure is applied. In some embodiments, silicone gels cannot exhibit more than 15% by weight of excessive oil leakage for up to 21 days, or no more than 66 1198485 of 109 of 20% in weight of excessive oil output for up to 35 days. The silicone gels described can be manufactured from formulations comprising a divinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane as a base polymer, a chain extender, a crosslinker, and a non-reactive PDMS silicone fluid. For high-viscosity vinyl-based formulations (60,000 cP and higher), a chain extender may or may not be used. A variety of crosslinking methods are possible. EXAMPLES Example 1. Silicone gels with non-reactive silicone oil-PDMS fluid A silicone gel was prepared according to the description as a two-part composition A and B as shown in Table 1 below. Non-reactive, trimethylsiloxy-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDSM) (e.g., viscosity 350 cSt, average MW 13,650 g / mol) was added to both sides A and B. Sides A and B were combined, molded, and cured to form blocks of silicone oil gel. Table 1. Silicone gel compositions of side A, side B and total 1198485 of 109 Component Description wt % wt of A wt % total A+B Supplier Spec V-PDMS Vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane 148.71 59.4 84 58.99 60 DMS V35, Gelest Inc. 5000 cSt Platinum Catalyst Platinumdivinyltetramethyldisiloxane Complex 0.15 0.06 0 0.030 0 6830.3 SIP, Gelest Inc. 3-3.5% Pt PDM 1922 Diphenylsylxanedimethylsiloxane Copolymer 1.00 0.40 0 0.200 0 PDM 1922, Gelest Inc. 160-230 cSt Antioxidant Isotridesia -3-(hydroxyphenyl)propionate 1.00 0.40 0 0.200 0 SONGNOX 1077, Songwon MW 460 1198485 of 109 Aceite de PDMS, 96,6 38,6 39,32 Gelest por silicone polidimetil 4 56 80 Inc. ejemp siloxano, lo, terminado 50- en 5000 trimetilsil cSt oxi Pigmento Pigmento 2,50 1,00 0,500 PGBLK01 55 % negro 0 0 , de Gelest Gelest pigme Inc. nto Total de A 250, 100, 00 000 peso % en peso de B V-PDMS Polidimetil 146, 58,5 DMS V- 5000 siloxano 27 08 35, cSt terminado Gelest en vinilo Inc. Reticulant Tetrakis(di 0,44 0,17 0,089 7278,0 mín. e metilsiloxi 70 9 4 SIT, 97 % )silane * Gelest 1198485 of 109 (MH4Q) Inc. Hydrogen-terminated polydimethyl siloxane extender* 3, 30 28 1,31 3 0,656 6 DMSH03, Gelest Inc. 2-3 cSt PDMS silicone vinegar 10 00 0, 0 40, 00 0 Gelest Inc. for example, 50- 5000 cSt Total de B 25 00 0, 100, 000 100 000 ,0 * Pueden ai reticulante duroza objei maintain la Total A+B adirse cantida y del extenso ivo de aproxima MFHC en aproxima 500, 00 es au r de dament adamen mentada e 110 te 0,3- s de para g 1:1, 0.4. hydride d lcanzar mitras i el se The silicone gels were synthesized according to the variations in Table 1. A first set of components was prepared. To prepare the first set of 1198485 of 109 components, a platinum catalyst complex (platinum-divinyltetramethyldisiloxane complex; 3.0% Pt in vinyl-terminated PDMS (6830.3 SIP, Gelest, Inc.)) is first added to a container. Then vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (DMS-V35, Gelest, Inc.), 5000 cSt, average MW 49,500 g / mol, is added and combined with the catalyst in a ratio of 100:0.101. A non-reactive silicone oil (e.g., DMS-T23, Gelest Inc., 350 cSt; or DMS-T25, Gelest Inc., 50 cSt). The mixture is started at low rpm (100 rpm) and gradually increased to 500 rpm over 2 minutes; then, the mixing speed can be increased to 1200-1400 rpm for 3 minutes. A second set of components was prepared by adding a vinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (DMS-V35, Gelest Inc.), 5000 cSt, average MW 49,500 g / mol, to a crosslinker, 7278.0 SIT GELEST, a chain extender, DMS-H03 GELEST, and a non-reactive silicone oil. The crosslinker is added to the container first because small variations in the amount added can greatly influence the gel hardness. An optional inhibitor may be added to the reaction container. The chain extender and non-reactive silicone oil are then added. It is best to start mixing at low rpm (100 1198485 at 109 rpm). After 2 minutes, switch to 500 rpm and scrape the sides of the container with a plastic rod. After these 2 minutes of mixing, the mixing speed can be increased to 1200-1400 rpm for 3 minutes. The first set of components was mixed with the second set of components in a ~1:1 ratio in a vial. The two sets of components were mixed at 1250 rpm for 2–3 minutes, placed under vacuum for 4–5 minutes, and poured into the desired mold. The resulting molded mixture was placed under vacuum for 3 minutes and then polymerized for 30 minutes at 90 °C. Additional silicone gels of varying hardness were manufactured by adding the crosslinking agent and chain extender while maintaining the MFHC of 0.30,4 to obtain silicone gels with hardnesses of 80 g, 100 g, 110 g, and 120 g. Example 2. Recovery of Silicone Oil Gel Hardness and Compression Hardening Silicone oil gels were manufactured from formulations similar to those shown in Table 1, containing 5000 cP divinyl-terminated polydimethylsiloxane, chain extender, crosslinker (the hydride molar fraction as crosslinker was ~0.3-0.4) and a 40% 50 cP non-reactive PDMS silicone fluid with three values 1198485 of 109 different H60s of 80 g, 100 g, and 120 g. The recovery of hardness and compression hardness of the cured silicone gels is shown in Figure 1. Each of the silicone oil gels had recovered most of its compression hardness within 5 minutes and had almost no residual compression hardness at 60 minutes. Specifically, each of the silicone gels in Figure 1 exhibited a compression hardness recovery of no more than 10% of the compression hardness after 5 minutes; or no more than 5% of the compression hardness after 30 minutes. The rapid compression hardness recovery was the physical property that allowed this gel formulation to seal a closure quickly (as quickly as the closure could be assembled and tested) at a pressure of 20 kPa.The same closure was opened and resealed quickly (also within 5 minutes) and was able to seal at 20 kPa repeatedly (up to 17 times) after post-opening and resealing thermocycling for the resealing test. Closures made using the dry silicone gel formulation of the prior art failed this test, which typically requires up to 2 hours after opening and closing to reseal at a pressure of 20 kPa. Example 3. Excessive Silicone Oil Gel Outflow 1198485 of 109 The silicone gel compositions were prepared similarly to Example 1, Table 1, except that they contained 40% of different non-reactive PDMS silicone extender oils of various viscosities, including 50 cSt, 350 cSt, 1000 cSt, or 5000 cSt. Excessive oil egress was tested for silicone oil gels cured at a pressure of 120 kPa at 70°C for 37 to 50 days. As shown in Figure 2, each of the silicone gels exhibited excessive oil egress of no more than 15% by weight for up to 21 days. Each of the silicone gels exhibited excessive oil egress of no more than 20% by weight for up to 35 days. Surprisingly, the silicone gel using lower viscosity 50 cSt PDMS extender oil exhibited less excessive oil outflow than higher viscosity 350 cSt, 1000 cSt, or 5000 cSt non-reactive PDMS oils, as shown in Figure 2. Example 4. Additional Test Plans for Oil-Extended Silicone Gels Additional process tests were performed as shown in Table 2. Table 2. Additional Testing Processes for Gels of Silicone Extenders with Oil Hardness Test Objective Method and Conditions Evaluation of Notes 1198485 of 109 (g) Performance Process of the NA A:B Curve Test of H60s Trace of Ratio 1.00:0.90 to hardness of 1.00:1.20, 60s against using aluminum cups, ratio, 2 cups in record the each hardness ratio, initial, the curing conditions ratio so that standard the B plus by the low is 60 use of a g, the B plus high machine is investigation when the FV curve has passed the peak hardness Material Tests Relaxation 60, 80, record the Model record 100, 110, mathematical curves of 1 1198485 of 109 120 hour on the 1 hour curve to target hardness H60s 60, 80, 100, 110, 120 of target hardness H60s, 2 cups in each ratio Tension 60, 70, Conditions Resistance Se and 80, 90, of test to the need Elongation 100, 110, 120, 130 g standard tension, elongation to failure, competition curve numerical curve values ​​for each hardness in Excel, 2 plates in each ratio Tension 60, 80, Test Resistance Se and 100, 120 after the need Elongation g aging tension, values 1198485 of 109 Test at 70°C, numerical elongation after aging for 168 hours or until failure, competition curve for each hardness in Excel, 2 plates in each ratio. They resist 60, 80, 70°C, 24 Size of After the 100, 120 hours bubble, does the gel fracture? initial test, run everything up to 168 hours. They resist 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 110, 130. Test conditions and need standard elongation to failure, full curve. Numerical curve values ​​for each hardness in Excel, 3 plates in each 1198485 of 109 Relationship Output 80, 100, 70 °C, up to Loss of 3 of each Excessive 120 1000 hours, oil hardness of 120 and 80 kPa Oil Hardening 80, 100, 70 °C, 22 Value It is necessary to measure the compression rate per hour, 120 hours, 168 hours, 336 hours, 672 hours, 1000 hours up to 1 hour per hour, 3 of each hardness Relaxation 100, 120 50 °C, Strength It is necessary to take 7 stress measurements, 100 °C, after the recovery of the aging of the gel 125 °C, 7 sets of measurements, for 1, 2 of each 2, 4, 8, 16, hardness, 32, 64 days each Temperature Hardening 100, 120 50 °C, Height The same 75 °C, residual measurement per 100 °C, after the established 1198485 of 109 Compression 125 °C recovery previously gel aging for 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64 days, height instead of force, use the same samples Various Gel Behaviors Escape 100 75 °C for 7 days Protrusion after recovery Measure and photograph each sample before and after recovery, various aperture geometries, 13 attachments The silicone oil gels were prepared using aluminum cups as provided herein 1198485 of 109 description by using the target hardness and a number n shown in Table 3. Table 3. Silicone gels spread with oil Gel required Target hardness (g) Number (n) Aluminum cups 60 2 80 2 100 2 110 2 120 2 Plates 60 8 70 6 80 8 90 6 100 8 110 6 120 8 130 6 Extrusion 60 4 1198485 of 109 80 4 100 4 120 4 Compression hardening 80 16 FV standard 100 16 120 16 Gel aging 100 40 2x2x2 cm 120 40 Klo test Excessive Oil Discharge Excessive oil output was performed on two sets of oil-extended silicone gels, each containing 40 wt% 50 cSt silicone oil with a target hardness of 80 g, 100 g, or 120 g, below 80 kPa for 112 days (Tables 4A, B, C) or below 120 kPa for 112 days (Tables 5A, B, C). Table 4A. 80 kPa silicone gel with excessive oil output with a hardness of 80 g; 50 cSt silicone oil 80 g Initial 2% of 4% 7% of 14% of 1198485 of 109 cial l days change days of change days change days change 1 0.4 60 0.4 59 0.217 4 0.45 6 0.8 696 0.45 2 1.73 91 0.44 6 3.043 5 2 0.4 53 0.4 52 0.220 8 0.45 0 0.6 623 0.44 6 1.54 53 0.44 1 2.649 0 3 0.4 38 0.4 37 0.228 3 0.43 5 0.6 849 0.43 0 1.82 65 0.42 6 2.739 7 AVERAGE 0.222 0.7 39 1.70 4 2.811 21 days S% change 30 days s % change 56 days % change 85 days % change 112 days % change 0.44 2 3.9 130 0.4 37 5.000 0 0.42 9 6.7 391 0.42 0 8.69 57 0.41 3 10.21 74 0.43 8 3.3 113 0.4 31 4.856 5 0.42 7 5.7 395 0.42 3 6.62 25 0.41 6 8.167 8 0.42 2 3.6 530 0.4 16 5.022 8 0.41 2 5.9 361 0.40 8 6.84 93 0.39 6 9.589 0 PRO AVERAGE 3.6 26 4.960 6.1 38 7.38 9 9.325 1198485 of 109 Table 4B. 80 kPa silicone gel with excessive oil output with a hardness of 100 g; 50 cSt silicone oil 100 Initial 2% change 4% change 7% change 14% change g ial days io days o days io days io 0.47 0.46 0.63 0.46 1.061 0.46 1.69 0.45 2.54 1 1 8 69 6 6 3 85 9 78 0.46 0.46 0.21 0.45 0.867 0.45 1.30 0.45 2.38 2 1 0 69 7 7 5 15 0 61 0.46 0.46 0.21 0.46 0.860 0.45 1.50 0.45 2.15 3 5 4 51 1 2 8 54 5 05 PRO MED 0.35 1.50 2.36 IO 6 0.930 2 1 21 % of % of % of % of % of day change 30 change 56 change 85 change 112 change s io days io days o days io days io 0.4 2.97 0.45 3.60 0.44 6.157 0.43 7.43 0.43 8.28 57 24 4 93 2 1 6 10 2 03 0.4 3.47 0.44 4.12 0.43 5.206 0.43 6.29 0.42 8.24 45 07 2 15 7 1 2 07 3 30 0.4 2.79 0.44 4.30 0.43 6.021 0.43 6.88 0.42 7.95 52 57 5 11 7 5 3 17 8 70 PRO 3.08 4.01 5.795 6.86 8.16 1198485 of 109 MEDIUM 0 1 8 0 Table 4C. 80 kPa silicone gel with excessive oil output with a hardness of 120 g; 50 cSt silicone oil 120 g Initial 2 days % change 4 days % change 7 days % change 14 days % change 0.48 0.48 0.20 0.48 0.826 0.47 0.47 2.89 1 4 3 66 0 4 5 1.8595 0 26 0.47 0.47 0.41 0.47 1.048 0.46 0.46 2.51 2 7 5 93 2 2 8 1.8868 5 57 0.43 0.43 0.22 0.43 0.455 0.43 0.42 2.50 3 9 8 78 7 6 3 1.3667 8 57 PRO MED 0.28 2.63 IO 5 0.777 1.704 8 21 % of % of % of % of day change 30 change 56 change 85 % of 112 change s io days io days or days change days io 0.4 3.71 0.46 4.95 0.45 6.198 0.45 0.44 7.85 66 90 0 87 4 3 1 6.8182 6 12 0.4 2.93 0.45 3.98 0.44 6.499 0.44 0.44 7.54 63 50 8 32 6 0 4 6.9182 1 72 1198485 of 109 0.4 26 2.96 13 0.42 2 3.87 24 0.41 2 6.150 3 0.40 5 7.7449 0.39 8 9.33 94 3.20 5 4.27 1 6.283 7.160 8.24 6 The silicone gels showed an excessive oil leakage of no more than 10% after 120 days at a pressure of 80 kPa, as shown in Tables 4A, B, and C. Table 5A. 120 kPa silicone gel with excessive oil output with a hardness of 80 g; 50 cSt silicone oil 80 g Initial 2 days % change 4 days % change 7 days % change 14 days % change 0.48 0.47 1.03 0.47 1.65 0.47 2.48 0.46 4.14 1 3 8 52 5 63 1 45 3 08 0.47 0.46 0.63 0.46 1.69 0.46 2.33 0.45 4.03 2 1 8 69 3 85 0 55 2 40 0.48 0.47 0.41 0.47 1.04 0.46 2.50 0.45 5.62 3 0 8 67 5 17 8 00 3 50 PRO MED 0.69 1.46 2.44 4.60 IO 6 5 0 0 21% of 30% of 56% of 85% of 112% of day change days change days change days change days change 1198485 of 109 s io io io io io 0.4 5.38 0.45 6.62 0.43 9.93 0.42 11.3 0.41 13.8 57 30 1 53 5 79 8 872 6 716 0.4 5.52 0.43 7.21 0.42 9.55 0.42 10.4 0.41 11.4 45 02 7 87 6 41 2 034 7 650 0.4 7.08 0.44 8.12 0.43 9.79 0.42 11.0 0.41 14.5 46 33 1 50 3 17 7 417 0 833 PRO MED 5.99 7.32 9.76 10.9 13.3 IO 6 3 1 44 07 Table 5B. 120 kPa silicone gel with excessive oil output with a hardness of 100 g; 50 cSt silicone oil 100 g Initial 2 days % change 4 days % change 7 days % change 14 days % change 0.46 0.46 0.42 0.45 1.50 0.45 0.44 4.29 1 6 4 92 9 21 6 2.1459 6 18 0.47 0.47 0.41 0.47 1.67 0.46 0.46 3.76 2 8 6 84 0 36 7 2.3013 0 57 0.48 0.48 0.41 0.47 1.23 0.47 0.46 3.29 3 5 3 24 9 71 6 1.8557 9 90 PRO 0.42 1.47 3.78 AVERAGE 0 1 2.101 6 1198485 of 109 IO 21 days % change 30 days % change 56 days % change 85 days % change 112 days % change 0.4 43 4.93 56 0.43 6 6.43 78 0.42 8 8.15 45 0.42 2 9.4421 0.41 0 12.0 172 0.4 53 5.23 01 0.44 4 7.11 30 0.42 6 10.8 787 0.42 0 12.133 9 0.41 1 14.0 167 0.4 63 4.53 61 0.45 1 7.01 03 0.43 5 10.3 093 0.42 5 12.371 1 0.41 7 14.0 206 AVERAGE 4.90 1 6.85 4 9.78 1 11.316 13.3 52 Table 5C. 120 kPa silicone gel with excessive oil output with a hardness of 120 g; 50 cSt silicone oil 120 g Initial 2 days % change 4 days % change 7 days % change 14 days % change 0.47 0.46 1.27 0.46 1.69 0.46 2.54 0.44 5.084 1 2 6 12 4 49 0 24 8 7 0.44 0.44 0.89 0.43 1.56 0.43 2.46 0.43 3.587 2 6 2 69 9 95 5 64 0 4 3 0.45 0.45 0.87 0.44 1.53 0.44 2.63 0.43 4.605 1198485 of 109 6 2 72 9 51 4 16 5 3 AVERAGE 1.01 5 1.60 0 2.54 7 4.426 21 days % change 30 days % change 56 days % change 85 days % change 112 days % change 0.4 43 6.14 41 0.43 9 6.99 15 0.42 7 9.53 39 0.42 3 10.3 814 0.41 3 12.50 00 0.4 23 5.15 70 0.41 3 7.39 91 0.40 3 9.64 13 0.39 9 10.5 381 0.39 2 12.10 76 0.4 29 5.92 11 0.42 5 6.79 82 0.41 2 9.64 91 0.40 7 10.7 456 0.39 6 13.15 79 PRO AVERAGE 5.74 1 7.06 3 9.60 8 10.5 55 12.58 9 Silicone gels showed excessive oil leakage of no more than 15% after 120 days at a pressure of 120 kPa, as shown in Tables 5A, B, and C. Compression hardening Compression hardening experiments were performed for silicone gels extended 40% with 50 cSt of silicone oil, each with 40% by weight with 50 cSt of silicone oil to a target hardness of 80 g, 100 1198485 of 109 g, or 120 g, at 70 °C using a 0.375 spacer, the compression fitting was cooled to room temperature before opening. Compression hardening data (% compression) after 22 hours, 7 days, 21 days, or 56 days are shown in Tables 6A at 9C. Table 6A. Compression hardening (% compression) after 22 hours, silicone gel with a hardness of 80 g Initial height minutes minutes minutes hours Compressed for 22 hours 80 g hardness no. 1 80 g hardness no. 2 0.750 0.740 height % compression height % compression 0.690 8.0 0.690 6.8 0.720 4.0 0.720 2.7 0.720 4.0 0.725 2.0 0.745 0.7 0.740 0.0 Table 6B. Compression hardening (% compression) after 22 hours, silicone gel with a hardness of 100 g 1198485 of 109 Compressed for 22 hours 100 g hardness no. 1 100 g hardness no. 2 100 g hardness no. 3 Initial height 0.755 0.750 0.750 height % compression height % compression height % compression 5 minutes 0.705 6.6 0.70 0 6.7 0.7 10 5.3 30 minutes 0.720 4.6 0.72 0 4.0 0.7 20 4.0 60 minutes 0.735 2.6 0.73 0 2.7 0.7 30 2.7 24 hours 0.750 0.7 0.74 5 0.7 0.7 50 0.0 Table 6C. Compression hardening (% compression) after 22 hours, silicone gel with a hardness of 120 g Compressed for 22 hours 120 g of hardness no. 1 120 g of hardness no. 2 Initial height 0.745 0.740 1198485 of 109 height % compression height % compression 5 minutes 0.705 5.4 0.695 6.1 30 minutes 0.715 4.0 0.710 4.1 60 minutes 0.725 2.7 0.720 2.7 24 hours 0.740 0.7 0.735 0.7 The results of the compression hardening (% compression) after 7 days are shown in Tables 7A, B, C. Table 7A. Compression hardening (% compression) after 7 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 80 g Initial height 5 Tablets for 7 days 80 g hardness no. 1 80 g hardness no. 2 0.735 0.740 height % compression height % compression 0.665 9.5 0.675 8.8 1198485 of 109 30 minutes 0.685 6.8 0.695 6.1 60 minutes 0.700 4.8 0.705 4.7 3 hours 0.710 3.4 0.715 3.4 24 hours 0.720 2.0 0.725 2.0 Table 7B. Compression hardening (% compression) after 7 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 100 g Initial height minutes minutes Tablets for 7 days 100 g hardness no. 1 100 g hardness no. 2 0.755 0.740 height % compression height % compression 0.690 8.6 0.685 7.4 0.715 5.3 0.700 5.4 0.725 4.0 0.715 3.4 1198485 of 109 minutes 3 hours 0.730 3.3 0.720 2.7 24 hours 0.735 2.6 0.725 2.0 Table 7C. Compression hardening (% compression) after 7 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 120 g Tablets lasting 7 days 120 g hardness no. 1 120 g hardness no. 2 120 g hardness no. 3 Initial height 0.740 0.740 0.730 height % of compression height % of compression height % of compression 5 minutes 0.690 6.8 0.685 7.4 0.680 6.8 30 minutes 0.700 5.4 0.700 5.4 0.695 4.8 60 minutes 0.710 4.1 0.710 4.1 0.705 3.4 3 hours 0.720 2.7 0.715 3.4 0.710 2.7 24 hours 0.725 2.0 0.725 2.0 0.715 2.1 1198485 of 109 The results of the compression hardening (% compression) after 21 days are shown in Tables 8A, B, C. Table 8A. Compression hardening (% compression) after 21 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 80 g Tablets for 21 days 80 g hardness no. 1 80 g hardness no. 2 Initial height 0.745 0.740 height % compression height % compression 5 minutes 0.680 8.7 0.670 9.5 30 minutes 0.695 6.7 0.695 6.1 60 minutes 0.710 4.7 0.700 5.4 3 hours 0.715 4.0 0.705 4.7 24 hours 0.730 2.0 0.720 2.7 Table 8B. Compression hardening (% compression) after 21 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 100 g Tablets for 21 days 100 g of hardness no. 1 100 g of hardness no. 2 100 g of hardness no. 3 1198485 of 109 Height Initial 0.750 0.755 0.745 Height % of compression Height % of compression Height % of compression 5 minutes 0.685 8.7 0.685 9.3 0.685 8.1 30 minutes 0.705 6.0 0.700 7.3 0.705 5.4 60 minutes 0.710 5.3 0.710 6.0 0.710 4.7 3 hours 0.720 4.0 0.715 5.3 0.715 4.0 24 hours 0.735 2.0 0.730 3.3 0.730 2.0 Table 8C. Compression hardening (% compression) after 21 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 120 g Initial height (minutes) Tablets for 21 days 120 g hardness no. 1 120 g hardness no. 2 0.745 0.750 height % compression height % compression 0.680 8.7 0.685 8.7 1198485 of 109 30 minutes 0.700 6.0 0.700 6.7 60 minutes 0.705 5.4 0.705 6.0 3 hours 0.710 4.7 0.715 4.7 24 hours 0.720 3.4 0.725 3.3 The results of the compression hardening (% compression) after 56 days are shown in Tables 9A, B, C. Table 9A. Compression hardening (% compression) after 56 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 80 g Tablets for 56 days 80 g hardness no. 1 80 g hardness no. 2 Initial height 0.740 0.745 height % compression height % compression 5 minutes 0.660 10.8 0.660 11.4 30 minutes 0.690 6.8 0.685 8.1 60 minutes 0.700 5.4 0.695 6.7 3 hours 0.710 4.1 0.710 4.7 24 hours 0.720 2.7 0.720 3.4 Table 9B. Compression hardening (% compression) after 56 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 100 g 1198485 of 109 Initial height (minutes) (minutes) (hours) (hours) Tablets for 56 days 100 g hardness no. 1 100 g hardness no. 2 0.740 0.750 height % compression height % compression 0.660 10.8 0.670 10.7 0.685 7.4 0.695 7.3 0.690 6.8 0.705 6.0 0.700 5.4 0.715 4.7 0.710 4.1 0.725 3.3 Table 9C. Compression hardening (% compression) after 56 days, silicone gel with a hardness of 120 g Initial height Tablets for 56 days 120 g hardness no. 1 120 g hardness no. 2 120 g hardness no. 3 0.750 0.735 0.745 height % compression height % compression height % compression 1198485 of 109 5 minutes 0.680 9.3 0.665 9.5 0.675 9.4 30 minutes 0.700 6.7 0.690 6.1 0.695 6.7 60 minutes 0.710 5.3 0.695 5.4 0.700 6.0 3 hours 0.720 4.0 0.705 4.1 0.710 4.7 24 hours 0.730 2.7 0.715 2.7 0.720 3.4 The extended silicone gels of the description, after being under compression at 70°C for up to 56 days, exhibit <20%, <12%, <10%, <5%, or <4%, or 0 to 20%, 0 to 0%, 0 to 5%, or 0 to 4% compression hardening after a recovery time of 24 hours. The extended silicone gels of the description, after being under compression at 70°C for up to 56 days, exhibit <20%, <15%, <12%, or 0 to 20%, 2 to 20%, or 4 to 5% compression hardening after a recovery time of 5 minutes. Extended silicone gels, each having 40% by weight of a silicone oil with 50 cSt at a target hardness of 80 g, 100 g, or 120 g, after being under compression at 70 °C for up to 56 days, exhibit 0 to 20%, 2 to 20%, or 2 to 12% compression hardening, or <20%, or <15% compression hardening. The extended silicone gels each have 40% by weight of a silicone oil with 50 cSt at a hardness of 98 1198485 of 109 target 80g, 100g, or 120g, after being under compression at 70°C for up to 56 days exhibit <15%, <12%, <10% or <9%, or 0 to 20%, 1 to 15%, or 2 to 12% at a recovery time of 30 minutes. Extended silicone gels, each having 40% by weight of a silicone oil with 50 cSt at a target hardness of 80g, 100g, or 120g, after being under compression at 70°C for up to 56 days, exhibit <8% or <7%, or 1 to 8% or 2 to 7% of compression hardening at a recovery time of 60 minutes. Extended silicone gels, each containing 40% by weight of a silicone oil with 50 cSt at a target hardness of 80g, 100g, or 120g, after being under compression at 70°C for up to 56 days, exhibit <6% or <5%, or 0 to 6% or 0.5 to 5% of compression hardening at a recovery time of 24 hours. Extrusion Resistance Extrusion resistance experiments were performed on stretched silicone gels made with 40% silicone oil at 50 cSt with target hardnesses of 60 g, 80 g, 100 g, and 120 g at 70 °C and 25 psi for 24 and 168 hours to determine bubble size and gel fracture. Two gels of each hardness were run. Results: After 1 week at 70 °C and 25 psi, the 120 g gel showed a silicone gel bubble of approximately 4 mm. 1198485 of 109 diameter, which protruded 2-3 mm from the device. After 1 week at 70 °C, at 25 psi, the 80 g gel showed a silicone gel bubble of approximately 7 mm in diameter, which protruded 5-6 mm from the device. Tensile and Elongation Test Tensile and elongation tests were performed on extended silicone gels made with 40% silicone oil at 50 cSt, having a target hardness of 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, or 130 g, for example. Tensile elongation was determined using ASTM D638, or as described herein. Tensile strength, elongation at failure, and full curve were determined under standard test conditions using two plates in each ratio. The elongation test results are shown in Table 10A. Aged extended silicone gel samples were also tested. The plates were aged for one week (168 hours) at 70°C before the gel rings were removed for analysis. The aged elongation test results are shown in Table 10B. Table 10A. Summary of the Results of the Extended Silicone Gel Lengthening Hardness-Load Ratio Lengthening Gel Deformation Deformation of 60 Maximum by by 100 1198485 100 of 109 A:B s traction (Extension) at Maximum Load Extension at Maximum Load (g) [N] [%] [%] [mm] 1.08:1 68.2 1,710 1660 1648 419 1.07:1 76.2 1,508 1400 1391 353 1.05:1 83.4 1,572 1234 1227 312 1.03:1 98.4 1,644 1077 1071 272 1.02:1 106.0 1,768 1144 1140 289 1:1 118.0 1,790 985 980 249 1:1.01 129.8 1,554 814 810 206 1:1,02 138,8 1,861 869 863 219 Table 10B. Summary of Results of Extended Age Silicone Gel Deformation by Tension by Hardness Ratio Load ELONGATION (Extension of Gel at 60 s Maximum n) to Load Maximum Load Maximum (g) [N] [%] [%] [mm] 101 1198485 101 of 109 1.08:1 68.2 1.875 1698 1689 429 1.05:1 83.4 1.613 1260 1250 317 1.02:1 106.0 1.850 1214 1206 306 1:1.01 129.8 1.768 937 930 236 Table 10C shows the elongation data for filled (20% R8200 silica) silicone gels (40%, 50 cSt non-reactive PDMS silicone oil) and unfilled extended silicone gels. The extended silicone gels were filled with 20 wt% silane-modified surface-moistened silica, R8200 (Evonik). Table 10C. Extended Silicone Lengthening Gel Filled and Unfilled Gel Hardness of 60 s Maximum Load ELONGATION Tensile Deformation (Extension) at Maximum Load Extension Deformation at Maximum Load (g) [N] [%] [%] [mm] 2 0 % silica R8200 100.6 8.426 2015 2007 510 102 1198485 102 of 109 1.02:1 (40% with 50 cst) 106.0 1.768 1145 1140 289 The extended silicone gels exhibited >1000% elongation (unfilled) or >1500% elongation when filled with 20% R8200 silica. Hardness Test The extended gels were prepared according to the description, containing 40 wt% non-reactive PDMS silicone oil with 50 cSt. The gels were cured at 90 °C for 10 minutes, or for a time period specified otherwise. The 60 s hardness was measured using a texture analyzer as provided in the description. Table 11A shows the change in 60 s hardness after curing for 10 minutes at 90 °C for four extended silicone gels at 1 hour post-curing and 6 days post-curing, and the increase in 60 s hardness. Table 11A. Change in 60 s hardness from 1 hour to 6 days after curing 1 hour after curing, 6 days after the 60 hardness increase 103 1198485 103 of 109 Curing ratio A:B 4 mm 60 s 4 mm 60 s grams % 1.08:1 #1 108.8 65.0 106.6 68.6 3.6 5.5 #2 107.4 65.0 111.0 68.8 3.8 5.8 1.05:1 #1 121.2 81.2 131.0 85.8 4.6 5.7 #2 120.8 81.4 127.0 87.0 5.6 6.9 1.02:1 #1 148.0 100.8 152.6 109.8 9.0 8.9 #2 148.2 101.2 152.6 109.4 8.2 8.1 1:1.01 #1 167.4 117.4 117.4 129.6 12.2 10.4 #2 167.6 118.2 118.2 130.6 12.4 10.5 The 60s hardness increased from 5% to 11% between 1 hour and 6 days after curing for each of the extended silicone gels. Table 11B shows the 60s hardness versus time at two different curing times at 90 degrees C for 15 min or 60 min. Table 11B. 60 s hardness versus time at 2 different curing times 90 °C 15 min 90 °C 60 min 1 hour 97.2 97.2 20 103.2 99.8 104 1198485 104 of 109 hours 44 hours 103.6 101.2 5 days 105.6 102.0 Table 11C shows gel hardness versus post-cure time for four different extended silicone gels made with 40% silicone oil at 50 cSt. Table 11C. Silicone Gel Hardness versus Post-Cure Time 1 hour after curing 2 hours after curing 4 hours after curing Ratio 4 mm 60 s 4 mm 60 s 4 mm 60 s 1.08:1 #1 100.0 62.8 107.0 64.6 107.2 64.8 #2 104.2 62.4 106.0 64.0 105.4 64.4 1.05:1 #1 124.8 80.0 128.4 81.2 127.4 82.0 #2 124.2 80.2 127.4 80.4 127.2 82.4 1.02:1 #1 145.8 100.0 149.0 102.4 146.0 103.4 #2 142.6 99.8 148.0 102.2 148.4 103.0 1:1.01 #1 163.2 116.4 169.4 119.6 171.0 121.6 #2 167.0 117.6 164.4 119.6 168.4 121.6 24 hours 48 hours after after 105 1198485 105 of 109 Curing ratio 4 mm 60 s 4 mm 60 s 1.08:1 #1 108.0 67.0 111.2 69.0 #2 108.0 66.8 111.0 67.6 1.05:1 #1 129.2 84.8 130.8 86.2 #2 128.8 84.8 131.0 85.4 1.02:1 #1 151.8 107.8 156.6 109.2 #2 155.0 107.8 155.4 109.0 1:1.01 #1 177.4 127.4 180.2 129.8 #2 179.6 129.2 180.8 130.4 Table 11D shows the 60-minute (3600-second) hardness curve for 8 extended silicone gels that have 40% silicone oil over time. Table 11D. 60-minute (3600-second) hardness curve for 8 extended silicone gels A:B Ratio 1.08:1 1.07:1 1.05:1 1.03:1 Time Hardness Hardness Hardness Hardness (seconds) (g) (g) (g) (g) 2 (4 mm) 110.2 113.8 127.6 137.0 60 68.2 76.2 83.4 98.4 120 65.4 73.0 80.4 95.0 180 64.0 71.4 78.6 93.6 106 1198485 106 of 109 240 63.0 70.4 77.4 92.0 300 62.4 69.4 76.6 91.0 600 60.6 67.6 74.8 89.0 900 59.4 66.2 73.2 88.2 1800 58.4 64.4 71.0 86.4 2700 56.6 63.8 68.4 85.0 3600 56.2 63.0 67.2 84.2 Table 11D. (cont.) 60-minute (3600-second) hardness curve for 8 extended silicone gels A:B Ratio 1.02:1 1:1 1:1.01 1:1.02 Time (seconds) Hardness (g) Hardness (g) Hardness (g) Hardness (g) 2 (4 mm) 152.2 170.0 176.4 188.8 60 106.0 118.0 129.8 138.8 120 102.8 115.4 126.0 134.8 180 100.2 113.8 124.4 133.0 240 98.8 112.2 123.0 131.8 300 98.6 111.0 121.8 130.8 600 96.0 109.2 119.2 128.4 900 94.6 107.8 117.6 127.0 1800 92.4 106.6 114.6 123.4 2700 91.8 104.6 112.6 121.2 107 1198485 107 of 109 3600 90.8 104.2 112.0 120.0 For the silicone gels described, as the A:B ratio decreases, the gel hardness increases. 108 1198485 108 of 109 PABLO SCHMUKLER - 20117733352 Digitally signed by PORTALTRAM ITES - INPI Date: 2020.12.01 16:30:07-03:00 Reason: Digitally Signed by the INPI Location: Buenos Aires, Argentina 1198485 109 of 109

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a silicone gel comprising: providing a first set of components comprising: (1) a base polymer having a vinyl-silicone group, (2) an additional curing catalyst, and optionally (3) a non-reactive silicone oil; providing a second set of components comprising: (1) a multihydride crosslinker, (2) an additional base polymer having a vinyl-silicone group, and optionally (3) a non-reactive silicone oil, and (4) a dihydride chain extender, wherein the mole fraction of hydride present as a crosslinker (MFHC) is from approximately 0.2 to approximately 0.5; mixing the first and second sets of components to form a silicone gel composition; and molding and curing the silicone gel composition to form the silicone gel, wherein the first and / or second set of components comprises the non-reactive silicone oil. Eight claims follow.