Is there a better sealant than silicone?

Author: Hou

May. 27, 2024

Chemicals

If you want to learn more, please visit our website OSi Silicone.

Choosing the right sealant for your project is crucial, whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional in the construction industry. Sealants come in various forms, and silicone sealant and polyurethane sealant are two of the most common options available.

A sealant serves as a material to seal joints, gaps, or seams, making them airtight or watertight. Silicone and polyurethane have specific characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision.

Why Use a Polyurethane Sealant over Silicone Sealant?

Polyurethane sealants are known for their high strength and durability. They are particularly suitable for professional applications, including in industries such as bridge building and automotive coach building. Polyurethane's quick curing time and exceptional hardness make it ideal for wood joints, which can then be sanded and painted for a high-quality finish.

Properties of Polyurethane Sealants

Polyurethane sealants can be beneficial in various industries:

  • Construction
  • Automotive
  • Engineering
  • Aerospace
  • Marine
  • Joinery
  • Road Building
  • Bridge Building

These sealants set quickly and create a strong bond, offering significant advantages over silicone in specific scenarios, particularly when working in outdoor conditions.

Are you interested in learning more about OSi Silicone? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

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Key Differences Between Silicone and Polyurethane Sealants

Silicone is an inorganic substance, while polyurethane is organic. Organic compounds contain carbon, often bound with a hydrogen atom. Polyurethane comprises organic atoms connected by carbamate, while silicone contains both inorganic and organic compounds made up of silicon and oxygen atoms.

Chemical Breakdown

The chemical composition affects how these sealants react to UV light. Inorganic silicone is less responsive to UV rays, making it more durable over time. Organic polyurethane can revert to its natural state when exposed to UV light, affecting its lifespan and versatility. However, polyurethane's quick reaction with UV light makes it particularly useful for fast-setting applications in professional environments.

Paint and Sealants

(Image courtesy of House Painting Tips with Silicone)

One significant advantage of polyurethane over silicone is its paintability. Silicone's inorganic compounds make it impossible to paint over, as the paint will not adhere to its surface. Polyurethane, on the other hand, can be painted over and even sanded after it cures, making it a preferred choice for both DIYers and professionals.

It could be argued that silicone lasts longer (being non-organic) than polyurethane (organic). Typically, a polyurethane sealant will produce effects that last between 5 and 10 years. Meanwhile, a silicone joint could last more than 20 years.

Most professionals, however, would argue that the quality and harder nature of Polyurethane sealants slightly edge out the longer-lasting nature of Silicone. This is likely why silicone is used more frequently in the home - where traffic and use is reduced. Meanwhile, polyurethane sealants prevail in professional situations where drying time and hardening qualities are more crucial.

Which Polyurethane Sealant?

We highly recommend the Soudaflex 40FC range. This high-quality polyurethane sealant and adhesive is perfect for a wide variety of applications. The biggest market for Soudaflex 40FC is the Coach Building Industry, where it is perfect for bonding and sealing panels. It is also extensively used in road and bridge building as well as industrial flooring applications.

  • Very good adhesion on many materials
  • Stays elastic after curing
  • Over-paintable
  • Easy application
  • Excellent resistance to many chemicals
  • Developed for concrete applications
  • Structural bonding in vibrating constructions

If you require further information or need help selecting the right sealant for your project, feel free to contact us. Our expert team is ready to assist you.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Methacryloxy Silanes.

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