Siloxane-containing polymers: from synthesis and characterization to advanced applications and sustainability

Siloxane-containing polymers with their exceptional thermal stability, low temperature flexibility, low surface energy and non-toxicity have become extremely valuable materials for a plethora of diverse technology areas such as biomedical engineering, soft electronics, optics, coatings etc. This review discusses some recent advances in the synthesis, processing and applications of these versatile materials, highlighting their unique properties and potential. It also highlights some new manufacturing methods and innovations, which enable complex designs and applications, the production of novel intricate structures with enhanced material properties, and further enhancement of versatility of the siloxane-containing polymers. Finally, the environmental sustainability of these materials emerges as a critical focus, with efforts directed towards ‘green’ synthetic routes, improved recyclability and safety concerns, highlighting the importance of ongoing research on their long-term effects on human, animal and environmental health. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.