Cross-Linking with Radicals Efficient cross-linking with radicals is only achieved when some vinyl groups are present on the polymer chains. The following mechanism has been proposed for the cross-linking reaction associated with radicals generated from an organic peroxide (Stark, 1982) This reaction has been used for high-consistency silicone rubbers (HCRs) such as those used in extrusion or injection molding, as well as those that are cross-linked at elevated temperatures. The peroxide is added before processing. During cure, some precautions are needed to avoid the formation of voids by the peroxide’s volatile residues. Postcure may also be necessary to remove these volatiles, which can catalyze depolymerization at high temperatures