ABSTRACT
A window glazing sealant that is expected to perform both adhesively and cohesively must be able to withstand movement that is induced during the manufacturing of the window. In-shop window fabrication, by definition, involves moving window units before the sealant reaches a fully cured state. The ultimate durability of the sealant is affected greatly by its resistance to fatigue during the curing process. An understanding of the impact of cure time and fatigue amplitude on the adhesive and cohesive properties is important in the selection of the optimum glazing sealant.
A comparison of four commercially available glazing sealants (low modulus silicone, high modulus silicone, acrylic latex and polyurethane) on three common window sash substrates (aluminium, PVC and wood) provides useful information in the relative fatigue resistance of these sealants during cure.
