|
Silanes are widely used to improve the adhesion of a broad range of
adhesives and sealants to inorganic substrates such as metals, glass and stone.
Sealants are based on filled, curable elastomers and have the dual
purpose of preventing passage of water, air and chemicals through the zone
where applied, plus serving as an adhesive in some cases. Their usefulness in
aircraft, automotive, and construction industries depends upon forming durable
bonds to metal, glass, ceramic, and other surfaces that will withstand exposure
to heat, ultraviolet radiation, humidity and water.
Silanes have the following four primary applications:
Adhesion Promoters
When added to adhesives or used as primers on substrates, Dow Corning® brand
silanes often provide dramatic improvement in adhesion by reducing moisture
attack at the interface. This results in improved
-
Moisture resistance
-
Temperature resistance
-
Chemicals resistance
Crosslinkers
Dow Corning® brand silanes can be used to crosslink polymers such as
acrylates, polyethers, polyurethanes, and polyesters to improve:
-
Tear resistance
-
Elongation at the break
-
Tear propagation
-
Abrasion resistance
Water Scavengers
Because Dow Corning® brand silanes react very rapidly with water, they can
be used in a formulation to capture excess moisture to:
-
Prevent premature cure during compounding
-
Enhance uniform curing
-
Improve package stability
Coupling Agents
When used as a coupling agent, Dow Corning® brand silanes bind organic
polymers to mineral or siliceous fillers, resulting in:
-
Improved mixing
-
Better bonding of pigment or fillers to resins
-
Increased matrix strength
If you have questions, we have answers. Dow Corning literally “wrote
the book” on silanes – Silane Coupling Agents by Edwin Plueddemann.
Order your copy on Amazon.com.
Find silane
coupling agents.
For More Information:
-
Are you developing an innovative product or application? See how the SISC can help.
-
Contact us for more information on silanes in sealants and adhesives.
|