Tips & Tricks for Using Adhesives, Silicones & Sealants.

Over the years, many of us have probably used an adhesive or a sealant at some point. Today, we’re going to dive into some useful tips and tricks for working with these essential products. There’s a vast array of adhesives, sealants, and silicones available on the market, providing simple solutions for countless applications in construction and industrial fabrication. In many cases, these non-metallic materials have become the go-to choice when it comes to joining surfaces or sealing joints. Adhesives, glues, and joint sealants can bind different materials together and distribute stress more evenly. They’re cost-effective and often offer a sleeker appearance compared to traditional metal fasteners like Huck rivets.

This beginner’s guide covers the dos and don’ts of adhesives, silicones, and caulk sealants. We’ll walk through an A-to-Z list of common terms related to sealants and highlight some key points. Remember, the golden rule is to always take the time to read and understand the technical datasheets provided by the manufacturers, as there can be significant differences between products and brands. Reputable adhesive and sealant companies like Bostik®, Soudal®, Sika®, and Shelleys® offer comprehensive online resources with detailed technical and safety data.

Cleaning the Surface.

Removing dirt, grease, oil, and other residues from the surface is crucial for forming a strong bond. Without a clean base, achieving a solid bond can be challenging. Here’s how to properly clean a surface for adhesives and sealants:

1. Gather your supplies: You’ll need (a) isopropyl alcohol or a suitable cleaning solvent, (b) clean, lint-free cloths, and (c) clean water (if required by the adhesive/sealant instructions). Avoid using petroleum-based products like white spirit or turpentine. Instead, consider Aerobolt’s “surface cleaner,” which effectively degreases and cleans surfaces, enhancing the bonding process.

2. Test the cleaning solvent: Before applying the solvent to the entire surface, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.

3. Apply the cleaning solvent: Moisten a clean cloth with the chosen solvent (isopropyl alcohol or specific adhesive/sealant cleaner). Pour the solvent onto the cloth instead of dipping the cloth directly into the solvent. Gently wipe the surface in one direction, then use a fresh cloth to wipe off in the opposite direction. This is known as the “two-rag method.” Regularly replace the cloths to avoid contamination. Scrub gently to prevent damaging the surface.

4. Even plastic-coated metal sheets require thorough cleaning, even if they appear pristine. Many protective coatings contain chemicals that can interfere with certain adhesives.

5. Always refer to the specific adhesive or sealant manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cleaning procedures. Different adhesives and sealants may have unique cleaning requirements, and following their guidelines ensures optimal bonding or sealing results.

Curing Process.

Curing refers to the drying process, which most sealants and adhesives accomplish by absorbing moisture from the air. Many adhesives and sealants are formulated with moisture-curing technology that reacts with atmospheric moisture to trigger the chemical cross-linking of ingredients, initiating the curing process. As the ingredients cross-link, they develop internal strength and form the chemical bonds necessary for these products to function effectively.

Moisture-curing adhesives like MS Polymer Bond Flex or Polyurethane Matrix FC require good airflow once the work is complete. These products typically take around 24 hours to cure, though the exact time depends on factors like the thickness and width of the adhesive application. When bonding large surfaces, apply the adhesive in multiple thin beads rather than a single thick bead to allow air to penetrate the material.

Accelerating Curing.

There are several ways to speed up the curing process for sealants and adhesives. Here are some effective methods: