In building and construction, silicone sealants, adhesives and coatings make construction materials work better and last longer. Silicone adhesives bond diverse materials such as concrete, glass, granite, steel and plastics. This enables innovative architecture and engineering, such as dramatic glass facades or curved and suspended structures. Sealants ensure materials stay affixed and absorb stress and movement from wind or earthquakes. Sealants and coatings also protect joints and materials from moisture, heat, corrosion, sunlight, ultraviolet radiation, pollution and other chemicals.
Silicone coatings are also used to preserve monuments around the world that have been damaged by air pollution, wind, sun and rain exposure.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency - Silicones used in construction materials can contribute to sustainability and energy efficiency:
- Silicone sealants can last 3 times longer than organic materials used in the same applications
- Applying silicone resin emulsion paints to an unprotected building façade can reduce heat loss by up to 40%.
- Silicone additives or coatings can reduce uptake of water by up to 80% compared to traditional building materials. This reduces degradation and lengthens the operational lifetime of the material treated.