Substrate Durability Guidelines Used in Silicone Structural Attachment

Abstract

Abstract This paper sets forth a procedure for evaluating substrates for durability for use in conjunction with structural silicone glazing (SSG). Lap shear and peel adhesion specimens are evaluated after exposures to various conditions using a modified ASTM C794-06, “Standard Test Method for Adhesion-In-Peel of Elastomeric Joint Sealants,” and ASTM C961-06, “Standard Test Method for Lap Shear Strength of Sealants.” Conditions of exposure include water, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), acetic acid (vinegar), salt fog, UV florescent accelerated weathering device (UVFl), ultraviolet light (UV) exposure, and heat. Evaluation of substrates and the interfaces are completed after tensile testing and visual surface analysis. The silicone structural glazing adhesive used in this evaluation is a high modulus high strength material intended to place the maximum load at the interface. Substrates evaluated include steel, anodized aluminum, galvanized steel, extruded rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC), glass reinforced thermoplastic resin (fiberglass), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) painted aluminum. These evaluated substrates are tested to this procedure to show differences in performance and suggest a minimum time frame required for testing. The results and guidelines set forth in this paper provide the foundation for a practice and or a substrate specification for use in conjunction with structural silicone attachment methods.