The difference between adhesives and sealants
The main difference between adhesives and sealants is that adhesives are primarily used to bond materials together.
Sealants are made from flexible material (Silicone sealants, Polyurethane sealants, Acrylic sealants) making them ideal for areas where expansion and contraction is of concern.
The main objective of a sealant is to seal assemblies and joints or gaps. Sealants need to have sufficient adhesion to the substrates and resistance to environmental conditions to remain bonded over the required life of the assembly.
When sealants are used between substrates or surfaces having different thermal coefficients of expansion or differing elongation under stress, they need to have adequate flexibility and elongation (movement capability). Sealants generally contain inert filler material and are usually formulated with an elastomeric to give the required flexibility and elongation.
Sealants usually have a paste consistency to allow filling of gaps between substrates. These sealant pastes normally cure (RTV-room temperature vulcanization) to form a durable and tough rubbery seal. Low shrinkage after application is often required.
Durability, good weather resistance as well as UV and ozone resistance is also required in most cases.
The adhesive’s main purpose is to bind one surface to another, not to seal the space in between the objects.
Many of Den Braven’s range of sealants, adhesives and foams meet the Green Building Council of South Africa environmental requirements. There is also a certified Fire Protect range available.
Selecting the correct sealant is as critical as the preparation and application process to the success of the job on hand.
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