Adhesive sealants play an essential role in many construction and manufacturing applications.
These versatile products are used for both bonding (joining surfaces together) and sealing (bridging gaps, preventing air or fluid transfer).
At Associated Gaskets, we’ve worked with these products for decades. One thing we’ve learnt; they are not all created equal.
Many of you would know there’s different brands and different types. In this post we’re going to focus on just one type; MS Polymers. Sometimes known as hybrid polymer; in recent years, MS polymer adhesive sealants have gained popularity due to their unique properties and benefits.
In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of MS polymer adhesive sealants, compare them to traditional silicone and urethane sealants, and explore some popular applications where MS polymer adhesive sealants are commonly used.
Benefits of MS Polymer Adhesive Sealants
1. High Strength and Durability.
MS polymer adhesive sealants are known for their excellent mechanical properties, including high strength and durability.
They can withstand high levels of stress, making them ideal for bonding and sealing applications where significant force may be applied.
2. Flexible and Elastic.
MS polymer adhesive sealants retain their flexibility and elasticity even after curing, making them suitable for applications where joint movement may occur.
They also have excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including wood, metal, plastic, and glass.
3. Some are Paintable and most are Low Odour.
Some MS polymer adhesive sealants are paintable, meaning they can be painted over once cured without any adverse effects.
Additionally, they have low odour, making them ideal for indoor applications where strong chemical odours may be a concern.
4. Resistant to UV, Moisture, and Chemicals.
MS polymer adhesive sealants are highly resistant to UV rays, moisture, and chemicals, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications where exposure to these elements is a concern.
They also have excellent weathering properties, ensuring a long-lasting bond and seal.
Comparison with Silicone and Urethane Sealants
Silicone and urethane sealants are two of the most commonly used types of adhesive sealants.
While each type and grade is different, you often find that MS polymer adhesive sealants offer several advantages over them…
1. Superior Adhesion.
Many MS polymer adhesive sealants have better adhesion than silicone and urethane sealants. They can bond to a wider range of substrates, including many difficult-to-bond surfaces like metals and plastics.
2. Better Flexibility.
MS polymer adhesive sealants remain flexible even after curing, whereas silicone and urethane sealants can become brittle over time, leading to cracking and separation.
3. Lower Odour.
MS polymer adhesive sealants have a lower odour than silicone and urethane sealants, making them more suitable for indoor applications.
4. Faster Curing.
Many MS polymer adhesive sealants cure faster than silicone and urethane sealants, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.
5. Specialised Applications.
MS Polymers are available for specialised and demanding applications. We have grades that can be powder coated and a type that can be applied underwater.
For various reasons, we have yet to find a silicone or polyurethane that can do the same.
Popular Applications for MS Polymers
Construction: MS polymer adhesive sealants are commonly used in construction applications for bonding and sealing a wide range of substrates, including concrete, metal, and wood. They are ideal for sealing joints in roofs, walls, and floors, preventing water and air leakage.
Automotive: MS polymer adhesive sealants are used in the automotive industry for bonding and sealing car bodies, windshields, and windows. They can withstand high levels of stress and are resistant to UV rays and harsh chemicals, making them ideal for automotive applications.
Marine: MS polymer adhesive sealants are used in marine applications for bonding and sealing boats and yachts. They are resistant to water, salt, and UV rays, making them ideal for use in harsh marine environments.
Manufacturing: MS polymer adhesive sealants are used in manufacturing applications for bonding and sealing a wide range of materials, including plastics, metals, and glass. They are ideal for use in assembly and packaging processes, providing a strong and durable bond.
Our MS Polymer Range
Associated Gaskets is pleased to stock a wide range of MS Polymer Adhesive Sealants.
Our range if manufactured by Weicon in Germany and is used around the world.
These industrial quality adhesive sealants are used for everything from construction and engineering work through to more specialised applications in the electrical repair, underwater work, pipeline construction and metal fabrication sectors.
With our network of branches Australia-wide, we are able to help you with choosing the best product for your application and getting you the adhesive sealant you need, when you need it.
