Abstract: A dual-cure silicone composition is provided that is useful to make an encapsulating/potting compound. The dual-cure silicone exhibits both UV- and moisture-initiated curing mechanisms, with the UV-initiated curing mechanism providing very rapid curing compared to conventional dual-cure silicones. The dual-cure silicone is an elastomeric material on curing. In a preferred embodiment, the dual-cure silicone composition is made from a mixture of a first polysiloxane component having terminal mercapto and alkoxy functionality, and a second polysiloxane component having terminal vinyl and alkoxy functionality. Methods of making the first and second polysiloxane components also are disclosed.

Abstract: A dual-cure silicone compound is provided that is useful as an encapsulating/potting compound. The dual-cure silicone exhibits both UV- and moisture-initiated curing mechanisms, with the UV-initiated curing mechanism providing very rapid curing compared to conventional dual-cure silicones. The dual-cure silicone is an elastomeric material on curing. In a preferred embodiment, the dual-cure silicone is made from a mixture of a first polysiloxane component having terminal mercapto and alkoxy functionality, and a second polysiloxane component having terminal vinyl and alkoxy functionality. Methods of making the first and second polysiloxane components also are disclosed.

Abstract: A method of applying a decorative wheel cover to a wheel rim is provided. An uncured precursor composition having a quantity of spacer particles therein is applied to the rear face of the wheel cover or an outboard surface of the wheel rim, and the wheel cover and rim are then press-fit together, sandwiching the precursor composition therebetween. The precursor composition is preferably a moisture-cured silicone composition. The wheel cover is press-fit to the wheel rim until further compression is prevented due to the presence of the spacer particles. The resulting precursor composition layer has a uniform thickness and is cured to provide an adhesive layer having the corresponding uniform thickness. A kit for practicing the method, as well as a wheel are also provided.