Sealants and Silicones

What are sealants and silicones?

A sealant is a viscous material that is applied to joints, gaps, and surfaces to provide a protective barrier against environmental factors, such as moisture, air, dust, and chemicals. They also offer structural stability and improve aesthetics by concealing joints and gaps in various applications.

Therefore, sealants are the unsung heroes of many industries. As they play a critical role in the longevity and effectiveness of various materials and structures. From automotive to construction, aerospace to DIY, sealants have found applications in nearly every sector. These versatile substances function primarily by sealing joints, gaps, and surfaces to protect against environmental factors, while providing added stability and aesthetics.

Sealants and Silicones explored

Let’s explore this range of adhesives in more detail.

It is particularly useful in the furniture, textiles, construction, and bed manufacturing industries due to its cleaning and lubricating properties.

PU Panel Adhesive – P1005 310ml

PU Panel Adhesive – P1005 310ml, also known as Soudaflex 40FC – is a high-quality polyurethane sealant which can be used on all usual building substrates, metals and polyesters.

It is a one-component sealant with high modulus for a wide range of sealing and bonding applications.

There is no adhesion on PE, PP, PTFE (Teflon®) and bituminous substrates.

It is available in two colours: white and black.

MS Polymer Sealant Crystal Clear – P1010 – 290ml

MS Polymer Sealant Crystal Clear – P1010 – 290ml, also known as Fix All Crystal – is a high quality neutral, elastic, one-component construction joint and adhesive sealant based on SMX-Polymer.

This sealant can be used for all usual building substrates, treated wood, PVC, plastics and where good resistance to water, aliphatic solvents, mineral oils, grease, diluted inorganic acids and alkalis is required.

Applicator Gun – 310ml HD

Applicator Gun – 310ml HD, heavy duty sealant applicator gun suitable for all sealants, adhesives and mastics to be dispensed from a 310ml cartridge. It is designed for industrial applications where it would be in constant use as provides an easier “pull” trigger to aid dispensing.

Applicator Gun – 310ml

Applicator Gun – 310ml, is a good quality sealant applicator gun suitable for all sealants, adhesives and mastics to be dispensed from a 310ml cartridge.

It is suitable for silicones, polyurethanes, MS polymers and mastics being used in domestic, trade and industrial applications

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Types of Sealants in general

In general sealants can be categorised based on their composition, cure mechanism, or application area. Here are some of the most commonly used sealants:

Silicone Sealants

Known for their flexibility, durability, and resistance to weathering, silicone sealants such as our Sanglier Silicone Spray – M1601 – 500ML are widely used in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries. These sealants adhere well to various substrates and offer excellent UV, moisture, and temperature resistance.

Polyurethane Sealants

Offering impressive adhesion, chemical resistance, and elasticity, polyurethane sealants – such as our Soudal PU Panel Adhesive – P1005 White 310ml are commonly used in construction, automotive, and marine applications. They bond well with different materials, such as wood, metal, and concrete, and can withstand wear and tear.

Application uses of Sealants

Sealants have a multitude of applications across various industries. Some common uses include:

Construction

Sealants are used to waterproof and weatherproof structures, seal joints between concrete and masonry, fill cracks and gaps, and ensure proper adhesion between different building materials. They also improve the structural integrity and aesthetics of buildings.

Automotive

In the automotive industry, sealants are utilized for bonding, sealing, and insulating components such as windshields, door frames, and sunroofs. They also help reduce noise, vibrations, and prevent corrosion.

Aerospace

Sealants play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of aircraft structures by sealing fuel tanks, windows, and fuselage joints. They provide protection against temperature extremes, UV exposure, and chemical attacks.

Marine

Used for sealing and bonding applications in boats and ships, marine sealants ensure watertight and airtight sealing while withstanding harsh marine environments.

Benefits of Using Sealants

Sealants provide many benefits. Some of these include:

Protection

Sealants provide a barrier against moisture, chemicals, and environmental elements, extending the life of structures and materials.

Improved Aesthetics

They provide a neat and clean finish, concealing gaps and joints in structures.

Energy Efficiency

By sealing gaps and insulating surfaces, sealants contribute to energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and drafts.

Structural Integrity

Sealants improve the strength and stability of materials and structures by bonding and reinforcing joints.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sealant

When you are choosing a sealant, several factors to consider include:

Substrate Compatibility

Ensure the chosen sealant is compatible with the materials it will be applied to for optimal adhesion and performance.

Application Area

Consider the specific requirements of the project, such as exposure to weather, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations.

Cure Time

Select a sealant with a cure time that aligns with the project timeline and workload

Can sealants be used on all types of materials?

Most sealants are designed to adhere to a wide range of materials, such as wood, metal, glass, concrete, and plastic. However, not all sealants are compatible with every material. It’s crucial to check the sealant’s compatibility with the substrate before application.

Are sealants the same as adhesives?

While sealants and adhesives share some similar properties and may overlap in certain applications, they are not the same. Adhesives primarily focus on bonding materials together, while sealants create a protective barrier to seal gaps, joints, and surfaces. Sealants generally have lower strength but higher flexibility compared to adhesives.

Can I paint over a sealant?

Some sealants, such as MS Polymer Sealant Crystal Clear – P1010, are paintable and can be painted over after they have fully cured. However, others, like silicone sealants, are not paintable. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications before painting over a sealant.

How long does it take for a sealant to cure?

The cure time for a sealant can vary depending on its composition, application, and environmental conditions. Generally, sealants take anywhere from a few hours to several days to cure fully. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cure times.

How long do sealants last?

The durability of a sealant depends on its type, quality, application, and exposure to environmental conditions. In general, sealants can last anywhere from a few years to several decades. Silicone and polyurethane sealants typically offer better durability compared to acrylic sealants.

Can I apply a sealant myself, or should I hire a professional?

Some sealants, such as MS Polymer Sealant Crystal Clear – P1010, are paintable and can be painted over after they have fully cured. However, others, like silicone sealants, are not paintable. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications before painting over a sealant.

What is the best way to store sealants?

Store sealants in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Ensure that the containers are tightly sealed to prevent exposure to air and moisture, which may cause the sealant to cure prematurely. Always follow the manufacturer’s storage recommendations and check the expiration date before use.

Not sure if Sealants and Silicones are right for your requirements?

If you are not sure if these sealants are correct for your requirements, please contact us to discuss your requirements and we can point you in the right direction.