Looking at the technical details, we can see that the key to this technological breakthrough lies in special silanes. These α-silane-based crosslinkers are much more reactive and less volatile than previous alkoxy-based products. This technique leads to a reduction in the catalyst concentration and, at the same time, greatly lowers the diffusion of volatile compounds within the product – a highly desirable feature of the curing process, as it results in improved end properties. Additionally, even at such an early stage, this innovation can accommodate the stringent demands of future changes to chemical legislation.

The new silicone grades boast even better processability that their predecessors. This provides the products with a longer “open” time, which gives processors considerably more leeway. ELASTOSIL^® 7000 N, ELASTOSIL^® 8000 N and ELASTOSIL^® 9000 N also have a higher paste viscosity – a characteristic that greatly simplifies the smoothing process.

Joints that are under severe strain particularly benefit from WACKER’s novel products. Material trials show that the test samples can permanently withstand elongation of well over 100% of the initial joint width without any crack formation. This property is important for large outdoor structural elements, since they are often exposed to considerable temperature fluctuations. It is also significant for indoor applications, as joint dimensions can continue to change after the construction job has been completed, for example due to floor screeds’ settling. ELASTOSIL^® 7000 N, ELASTOSIL^® 8000 N and ELASTOSIL^® 9000 N can compensate for these movements much more effectively than conventional products, because the sealants have a mechanism that distributes any tensile and stretching forces that may arise and reduces them better. This prevents formation of cracks in the long run.