ISSN: 1546-962X
Published Online: 27 April 2009
Page Count: 24

Long-Term Outdoor Weathering Study of Construction Sealants

Bull, Errol D.
Technical Marketing Engineer, Momentive Performance Materials, Waterford,NY

Lucas, Gary M.
Principal Chemist, Sealants Technology, Momentive Performance Materials, Waterford,NY

(Received 17 June 2008; accepted 17 February 2009)

Abstract

Long-term weather resistance is an important factor to consider when selecting a sealant product for use as an exterior weatherseal for construction applications. The weathering performance of sealants used in these applications can be dependent upon sealant type, sealant chemistry, product formulation, building location, climate, and joint orientation, among other factors. This paper compares and shows the long-term performance of three construction sealant types: silicone, polyurethane, and acrylic terpolymer. Performance attributes such as toughness, flexibility, adhesion, and physical degradation (i.e., reversion, cracking, hardness, etc.) are compared after a 22 year exposure to outdoor weathering in South Florida.

Keywords:
durability, outdoor weathering, silicone, polyurethane, acrylic terpolymer, hardness, flexibility, adhesion, elastic recovery, toughness

Paper ID: JAI101946
DOI: 10.1520/JAI101946
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