Retention of movement capability of polyurethane sealants in the tropics

Abstract

The adequacy of standard testing methods for movement capability of sealants under tropical conditions was reviewed. A new method involving prolonged exposure to heat and water was proposed and tested. The study has shown that the proposed methodology for accelerating the effect of artificial weathering may be a better representation for the tropical conditions. The study has also shown that a combination of a hydrophobic polyester, a water-absorbing agent, an anti-oxidant package and a silane adduct can significantly improve the retention of movement capability against water and heat. © 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.