Adhesives and sealants in window glazing applications
One of the first adhesive technologies used in structural window glazing is silicone; structural silicone glazing systems (SSGs) have a 30+ year track record of success. Today, the world's tallest buildings use this technique based on the performance and durability demonstrated over the past few decades. A key requirement for SSG is long-term adhesion durability to glass under the temperature extremes and movements found on the exterior of a commercial building. SSGs deliver a continuous rubber anchorage that allows an uninterrupted glass façade. The silicone allows for differential thermal expansion between substrates of differing thermal-expansion coefficients.
It is important to note that the industry standard specification for SSGs is ASTM C 1184 and the use guide is ASTM C 1401. Both are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C-24 on Building Seals and Sealants. Current silicone technology demonstrates safety factors of 4-8 when designed according to ASTM C 1401 and tested according to ASTM C 1135. (There are no other engineered, manufactured building components with such high safety factors.)