silikoonist

A silikoonist is a practitioner who specializes in silicone-based materials, using them to design, fabricate, repair, or prototype objects across a range of industries. The term is used in some languages to describe professionals who work with silicone elastomers, sealants, and related compounds; in English, related roles include silicone mold maker, silicone technician, and silicone prosthetics technician. The concept covers artistic, industrial, and medical applications rather than a single standardized occupation.

In practice, a silikoonist might select silicone formulations (platinum- or tin-cured), prepare and treat molds, mix pigments, degas voids, and cure parts under room temperature or heat. They may produce art sculptures from silicone, create molds for reproductions, cast soft elastomer components, or fabricate medical or dental impression materials, prosthetic liners, and soft robotics elements. They also perform repairs, sealing, or gaskets in consumer products or electronics.

Key competencies include knowledge of silicone material properties (durometer, tear strength, cure conditions), mold design and release, measurement and quality control, and safety considerations. Common tools are measuring mixers, vacuum degassing equipment, curing ovens or plates, release agents, pigments, and curing agents. Education often spans fine arts, industrial design, or materials science; specialized certifications exist for moldmaking, medical-grade silicones, or electronics assembly, depending on the domain.