A review of the assessment methods for the performance of sealants

Abstract

Sealants installed in building joints are prone to premature failure if the choice of sealants does not match the requirement of their functions. Architects, engineers and building owners thus have to evaluate the suitability for a specific joint. This process is often error-prone. This paper seeks to examine the various types of standard laboratory testing for the performance of sealants as stipulated in ASTM, BS and ISO. The merits and limitations of these standard assessment methods are discussed.