by Adhesives and sealants are binding substances that are used in construction, transportation, healthcare, office equipment and many other industries. They are used to bond materials or parts together, and provide a variety of properties that may be desirable in a given application such as waterproofing, thermal insulation, acoustic or fire barriers, etc. In general, sealant manufacturers formulate their products as compromise formulations, ensuring that the product can satisfy the majority of applications without being so specialized that it cannot be used in any other circumstance.
There are several different types of sealants, with each type having a specific purpose. One of the most common types of sealants is silicone sealant, which provides a waterproof seal that can be cured with heat or by exposure to UV light and electron beam radiation. It is also very effective in resisting fungus, algae and mold growth, which makes it particularly useful in applications such as swimming pools, baths or kitchens.
The majority of sealants are comprised of some form of polymer. Some of these polymers are liquid when poured, while others are solid. The base polymer is modified by various extenders or adders in order to achieve the desired end-use characteristics. The end-use requirements could be as simple as the ability to flow and wet a surface, or they could be more restrictive like a requirement for FDA or USDA acceptance, or the capability of meeting a specific fire-resistance standard in building construction.
Aside from their structural properties, sealants can have a number of aesthetic and environmental benefits as well. They can help maintain the appearance of a structure by preventing color fading, cracking and chalking, and they can reduce maintenance costs and improve a structures energy efficiency and longevity.
In terms of environmental impact, most sealants are made of a low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) content and are often designed to be biodegradable. These properties make them ideal for use in environmentally sensitive areas, such as waterways and national parks. In general, the best sealants are those that will not release chemical fumes, volatile organic compounds or vapors during application or curing, as these can create safety or health hazards in the workplace.
Another important consideration is the ease of applying and handling the sealant. Most sealants are formulated to be applied as a liquid, so they must have relatively good flow properties during application. They must be able to withstand moderate amounts of stress during curing, but they must return to their original state when the stress is removed. This property is known as thixotropy or anti-slump.
As the demand for adhesives and sealants continues to rise, so does the need for businesses to source quality suppliers. The easiest way to find a supplier that can meet your needs is through IndustrySelect, our online service that connects you with over 460,000 industrial businesses and one million executives. Click the link to learn more about this powerful tool or give us a call today!
