DOWSIL™ 995 Silicone Structural Sealant is a high-performance, one-component, neutral-cure silicone sealant designed for use in structural glazing and weathersealing applications. It offers excellent adhesion to a wide variety of substrates, including glass, metal, and many plastics. The sealant has excellent weathering and UV resistance, making it ideal for use in exterior applications. It also maintains excellent adhesion even in extreme temperatures, making it suitable for use in both hot and cold climates.
Features & Benefits
- DOWSIL™ 995 Silicone Structural Sealant has excellent adhesion to various substrates, including glass, metal, and many plastics.
- It has a high tensile strength and can withstand high stress without breaking or tearing.
- It is highly resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for outdoor applications.
- It is a one-part, neutral-curing sealant that does not require any mixing or special tools.
- It can withstand high wind loads and seismic movement, providing enhanced safety and security.
- It maintains its elasticity over time, even in extreme weather conditions, preventing leaks and maintaining the integrity of the structure.
- It can be used in a wide range of commercial, industrial, and residential applications, providing versatility and flexibility in construction and maintenance projects.
- It meets various industry standards and regulations, ensuring that it is safe and reliable for use in various building applications.
Applications
DOWSIL™ 995 Silicone Structural Sealant is a high-performance sealant that is specifically designed for use in structural glazing applications, including curtain walls, windows, and skylights. Some of its key applications include:
- Curtain walls: DOWSIL™ 995 is commonly used as a structural sealant in glass curtain wall systems to provide a weather-resistant, long-lasting seal between the glass panels and the metal framing.
- Windows: The sealant can be used to bond and seal window glass to metal frames or other substrates, ensuring long-term durability and resistance to weathering.
- Skylights: DOWSIL™ 995 is suitable for use in structural glazing applications, including skylights. It can help to provide a strong, weather-resistant seal that can withstand the elements over time.
- Facades: The sealant can also be used in the construction of building facades to seal joints and gaps between various building materials such as glass, metal, and masonry.
- Transportation: DOWSIL™ 995 is used in the transportation industry for bonding and sealing in railway carriages, aircraft, buses and trucks.
Colors
This product is available in black, gray, and white
Approvals/Specifications
- ASTM C1184: Standard Specification for Structural Silicone Sealants.
- ASTM C920: Standard Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants.
- Federal Specification TT-S-001543A: Type O, Class A.
- Canadian Standards Association (CSA) A123.21-M: Use in Glass Structures.
- American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) 802.3-10: Voluntary Specifications for Structural Silicone Glazing.
- Miami-Dade County Product Control Approval: Approved for use in high-velocity hurricane zones.
- UL Recognized Component: UL File No. E36952.
How To Use
DOWSIL™ 995 Silicone Structural Sealant is a high-performance product that requires careful preparation and application to ensure a strong, durable bond. Here are some general guidelines on how to use DOWSIL™ 995:
- Surface preparation: The surfaces to be bonded must be clean, dry, and free of any contaminants such as oil, grease, or dust. Clean the surfaces with a suitable solvent or detergent, and then dry completely.
- Primer application: In some cases, a primer may be required to enhance adhesion. Apply the primer according to the manufacturer's instructions and allow it to dry completely before applying the sealant.
- Application: Apply the sealant in a continuous, even bead using a caulking gun. For best results, use a nozzle that matches the joint width. Tool the sealant with a spatula or other appropriate tool to ensure that it is fully compressed and in contact with both surfaces.
- Cure time: DOWSIL™ 995 requires time to cure and achieve its full strength. The cure time depends on several factors, including temperature, humidity, joint depth, and the amount of sealant applied. As a general guideline, the sealant will skin over in 30 minutes and reach 50% cure in 7 days.
- Clean-up: Clean any excess sealant from the joint immediately with a suitable solvent or detergent. Use a dry cloth or sponge to remove any remaining residue.
- Safety: Always follow the safety guidelines listed on the product label and any additional safety information provided by the manufacturer.
Handling Precautions
- Personal protective equipment: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, to prevent skin and eye contact with the sealant.
- Ventilation: Use the sealant in a well-ventilated area to prevent exposure to fumes.
- Storage: Store the sealant in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition and direct sunlight.
- Handling: Do not puncture or incinerate the sealant container, and avoid dropping or damaging it.
- Clean-up: Clean any excess sealant from the joint immediately with a suitable solvent or detergent. Use a dry cloth or sponge to remove any remaining residue.
Usable Life and Storage
Storage: Store the sealant in a cool, dry place away from sources of ignition and direct sunlight. Do not store the sealant at temperatures above 35°C (95°F) or below 5°C (41°F).
Usable life: The usable life of the sealant depends on several factors, including the temperature, humidity, and depth of the joint. As a general guideline, the sealant should be used within 30 minutes of application, as it will begin to skin over and cure. Do not apply additional sealant over partially cured material.
Limitations
- Not suitable for all materials: DOWSIL™ 995 may not bond well to all materials. It is not recommended for use on some plastics or materials that may bleed oils, plasticizers or solvents, as this may affect adhesion.
- Joint design: Joint design is critical to ensure proper performance of DOWSIL™ 995. The joint should be designed to allow for adequate movement and prevent stress concentrations.
- Curing time: DOWSIL™ 995 has a longer cure time than some other sealants. It can take up to seven days to achieve 50% cure, so it may not be suitable for applications where a fast cure time is required.
- Compatibility: DOWSIL™ 995 may not be compatible with some other sealants or coatings. Compatibility testing should be conducted before use.
- Surface preparation: The surfaces to be bonded must be properly prepared and free from contaminants to ensure a strong bond. If the surface is not properly prepared, the sealant may not adhere properly.
