Abstract: An elastomeric article having a matte finish is prepared by curing a hydrolyzable composition under conditions of elevated humidity, or by including short aramid fibers therein. Disclosed herein are particular processes for the preparation of matte finished silicone rubber articles in a continuous extrusion process.

Abstract: A process for forming a cured article of consistent shape from a hydrolyzable siloxane composition without the problem of non-uniformity that results from significant die swell upon extrusion and from shrinkage upon curing. The present process comprises extruding a non-self-supporting composition maintained at a temperature greater than 5.degree. C. The composition comprises a polydiorganosiloxane having at least two silicon-bonded hydrolyzable groups per molecule, a hydrolyzable silicon crosslinker, a filler, and optionally a curing catalyst. The composition is extruded at a constant rate through a shaping die to form a shaped extrusion having a cross-sectional area that is substantially uniform throughout the length of the shaped extrusion. The shaped extrusion is fed in a continuous flow into an aqueous curing bath which is maintained at a temperature of at least 20.degree. C. and which has a density substantially the same as or slightly greater than the density of the shaped extrusion.