is a liquid form of adhesive. Typically, it looks, feels, and acts like a gel. It has a different chemical make-up from other organic polymer-based adhesives. Unlike other adhesives, silicone keeps its elasticity and stability in both high and low temperatures. Furthermore, silicone sealant is resistant to other chemicals, moisture, and weathering. This makes it less likely to fail when building and repairing objects.
Unlike some adhesives, silicone sealants must cure. Curing silicone basically means letting it dry. Curing silicone isn’t necessarily difficult, but it does require patience. The temperature needs to be between 40°F and 100°F, and there needs to be between 5% and 95% humidity for silicone to cure. It can take as little as 24 hours to cure, or it can take up to several days if the sealant is especially thick.
One of the most common uses for silicone adhesives is for basic repairs around the house. For example, silicone sealants can be used for caulking cracks. Sometimes individuals may use it to try and level surfaces in their home. Water-resistant silicone sealants are ideal for repairing areas around sinks and other areas where water is frequently found.
Even though silicone isn’t a good substance to use for weight-bearing seals, there is still a need for its powerful adhesive properties in many construction jobs. Silicone sealants are commonly used to bind surfaces such as plastic, metal, and glass together. For example, aquariums are often sealed with silicone. Windows are often sealed to frames with silicone adhesive since it is weather resistant.
Since silicone can keep its adhesive properties when temperatures are high, it is commonly used in automobiles, electronic devices, and appliances. Often silicone adhesives will be used as a bonding agent for parts in car engines, such as a car gasket. In appliances and electronic devices, silicone is used to seal cables and sensors into place.