Sealing & insulation

Windows and doors are the most important components in ensuring not only structural stability, but also delivering on essential comfort and safety needs. Silicones enable these structures to be airtight, waterproof, energy-efficient and – in specific situations – keep out unwanted noise, insects and dust.

Transport infrastructure is increasingly exposed to harsh environmental conditions, placing greater demands on the materials used. Silicones can overcome these challenges, enabling different materials to be sealed while resisting traffic-induced vibration, or corrosion caused by environmental pollution.

Insulated glass panes for windows and structural glazing are vital for achieving energy-efficiency. Silicone sealants are vital in achieving a bond between multiple glass layers that is solid but that can nevertheless adjust to the stresses caused by changes in temperature, humidity, wind and other environmental conditions.

The expansion joints present in ‘prefabricated’ or modular constructions must be well-sealed to avoid moisture ingress and so maximize building lifetime. Silicone sealants and silane-modified polymers offer optimum bonding, weatherproofing and overall resistance for outdoor joints; they are also available in various colors and are compatible with most types of paints.

Silicone sealants enable many different building materials to be combined, allowing the construction of more efficient and visually spectacular buildings. We’ve developed a diverse product portfolio of silicones and silane-modified polymers for use in sealant formulations, either as sealants, primers or auxiliaries.

Silicones are widely used in interior decoration to join together building materials such as wood, plaster, ceramic tiles, and even glass. Elkem products are designed specifically for use indoors, and all comply with the strictest national and international safety standards.

In modern buildings, facades and cladding materials must be sealed to the bottom of the external walls to meet strict aesthetic, lighting, heat and sound insulation requirements. Silicones are ideal for this purpose, as they have excellent adhesion, and can accommodate the stresses resulting from environmental changes.

The high humidity (and often elevated temperature) in kitchens and bathrooms means that mold growth is a common problem. Anti-mildew silicone sealants tackle this issue by inhibiting mold growth, helping to keep the home environment mold-free.