US Patent 7098275 Heat resistant material for molds and other articles

A mixture of particulate silicone based material and small hollow elements, such as spheres and/or fibers, is provided. The particulate silicone based material is heated to a temperature between about 200° F. and about 400° F. The particulate silicone based material is cooled until a solid body is formed. The solid body is resistant to melting and thermal decomposition when heated to temperatures of at least 3000° F. The solid body may contain cavities formed by the small hollow elements. The solid body may contain reinforcing fibers. The solid body may contain both small hollow elements and fibers.