Silicone
Silicones are a class of polymers with a chain of silicon and oxygen atoms, rather than a chain of carbon atoms as in most polymers. They should not be confused with the element 'silicon' (no "e").
Various groups of atoms may be attached to this silicon-oxygen backbone to produce a vast array of silicones with widely differing properties. There are many formulations for many purposes; not all silicone is the same. Silicones can be liquid or a soft solid similar to rubber. Not all types are suitable for contact with human skin, but some types are bio-compatible and are even used in implants, for example for breast enlargement.
As solids, silicones are very tactile, being smooth and silky to the touch. They do not feel clammy, as they warm quickly to the surrounding temperature. Most solid silicones are also flexible and malleable so that they always feel comfortable, retaining heat well.
Silicones are tough, are easy to clean (you can even put most of them on the top shelf of a dishwasher) and non-porous if well made. Silicone can also be manufactured and dyed in a myriad of colours. There are also silicone-based lubricants which, unlike oil-based ones, willl not damage rubber. Conversely, silicone products are not damaged by oil-based lubricants.
Silicones are sometimes used to make dildos and butt plugs.
