Bayer MaterialScience One-Component and Two-Component Polyurethane Sealants – Composition, Advantages and Uses

Atlanta, GA, April 22, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Although the terms “caulk” and “sealant” are often used interchangeably, they have fundamental differences. Caulks are used to fill a gap or crack and do not allow a lot of movement, while polyurethane sealants are more flexible and function as a barrier to water, air or other substances. Another difference is that sealants offer properties that are higher performing than caulking agents.

Polyurethane sealants are available in one-component (1K) or two-component (2K) formulations. Prepolymers in the backbone of the sealants provide most of the sealant’s properties.

Dr. Jay Johnston, senior scientist, Bayer MaterialScience LLC, provides a further explanation of sealants in his presentation “An Introduction to Silane Terminated Resins and Polyurethane Sealants,” at 10:50 a.m., Monday, April 22. Through his presentation, Dr. Johnston aims to educate attendees on polyurethane sealants – their composition, benefits and possible uses.

Traditional, moisture-cure 1K polyurethane sealants are usually based on aromatic diisocyanates. According to Dr. Johnston, benefits of this type of sealant include very little shrinkage, good flexibility, low modulus, excellent durability and paintability. Additionally, 1K polyurethane sealants are able to be formulated without the use of solvents. Possible foaming when in contact with large amounts of water and slow curing in low-humidity and cold conditions are some of the drawbacks of this technology.

A more recently developed 1K polyurethane sealant technology is based on silane-terminated prepolymers. The silane-terminated prepolymer eliminates the potential for the sealant to foam when in contact with moisture. This, along with colorfast properties, makes silane-terminated sealants attractive to the construction market.

1K polyurethane sealants are mainly used in fenestration applications, such as windows and doors, but can also be used in many other residential or construction applications. Dr. Johnston explains that since both variations of prepolymers are high-performing, moisture-cure 1K polyurethane sealants and 1K silane-terminated sealants continue to grow in popularity.

In his presentation, Dr. Johnston also details 2K polyurethane sealants. These formulations initially utilized polyurethane materials, but have now transitioned to using polyurea technology due to its faster reactivity. Polyureas also cure at low temperatures, making them well-suited for use in refrigeration or low-temperature, outdoor applications. Dr. Johnston adds that polyurea sealants also provide a quick return to service, are less moisture sensitive than 1K polyurethane sealants, prevent spalling of concrete into expansion joints and have good adhesion to most substrates, among other advantages.

“Applicators choose 2K sealants to create structural bonds in applications, such as in between concrete slabs, where strength is required,” says Dr. Johnston. “Unlike 1K polyurethane sealants, 2K sealants are not preferable for use around windows or doors. The 2K sealant formulas are too hard and strong – not providing the flexibility needed for those applications,” he concludes.

Dr. Johnston will also provide a look forward at the trend toward aliphatic systems, which provide increased UV resistance and good aesthetic qualities.

Dr. Johnston’s presentation is part of the Polyurethane Short Course, taking place April 21-22, in Atlanta. This continuing education program features presenters from a number of companies discussing the many aspects of utilizing polyurethanes to formulate adhesives and sealants. It is being held in conjunction with The Adhesive & Sealant Council (ASC) 2013 Spring Convention.

About Bayer MaterialScience LLC:
Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with approximately 14,500 employees at 30 production sites around the world and 2012 sales of 11.5 billion euros. The company manufactures high-tech polymer materials and develops innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries. Sustainability is central to Bayer MaterialScience LLC’s business and is based around the key areas of innovation, product stewardship, social responsibility and respect for the environment.