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Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-07-19 Origin: Site
In the construction and industrial adhesive markets, Modified Silane (MS) Sealants and Silicone Sealants are two widely used materials. Each offers unique performance characteristics and application advantages. This article provides a neutral, data-driven comparison to help industry professionals choose the appropriate sealant based on project needs, environmental compliance, and material compatibility.
MS Sealant, also known as Modified Silane Polyether Sealant, is a hybrid sealant based on silyl-terminated polyether polymers. It was developed as an evolution of traditional polyurethane and silicone sealants, offering a balance of strong adhesion, flexibility, environmental safety, and paintability.
It is solvent-free, isocyanate-free, and has very low VOC emissions, making it a preferred choice for green building and interior applications.
The following table summarizes key performance indicators based on manufacturer technical datasheets, material safety data, and industry test standards (ASTM, ISO):
| Performance Indicator | MS Sealant | Silicone Sealant |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Base | Modified silane polyether | Polysiloxane (RTV) |
| Isocyanate-Free | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
| Paintability | ✔ Can be painted after curing | ✖ Generally not paintable |
| Adhesion Strength | High (≥1.5–2.5 MPa tensile strength) | Moderate to high, varies by substrate |
| Weather Resistance | Moderate to high (UV stabilized grades available) | Excellent, long-term UV and ozone resistance |
| Anti-Mildew | Intrinsic mildew resistance (non-porous structure) | Requires anti-mildew additives |
| Application Surfaces | Multi-substrate: metal, PVC, concrete, wood, tile, etc. | Best on glass, aluminum, ceramic |
| Tooling and Finish | Easy to apply and tool | Also easy to apply |
| Use Case | Interior and exterior bonding, sealing, painting | Exterior weatherproofing, glazing, joints |
Sources Referenced:
Sika® Technical Datasheets
Bostik® MS Polymer Product Manuals
Dow Corning® Silicone Sealant Data
ASTM C920, ISO 11600 sealant performance classifications
Chinese GB18583-2008 indoor decoration VOC standards
Low VOC and Non-Toxic
MS sealants contain no solvents or isocyanates and release negligible VOCs, making them ideal for indoor use, LEED-certified buildings, and environments with strict air quality regulations.
Excellent Material Compatibility
They adhere well to a wide range of materials—including porous and non-porous surfaces—without needing a primer, reducing complexity in construction workflows.
Paintable Surface Finish
Unlike silicone sealants, MS sealants can be painted with most water-based or solvent-based paints, improving aesthetic flexibility, especially in decorative joints and interior applications.
Balanced Elasticity and Durability
MS sealants offer high movement capability (up to ±25%), strong tensile strength, and resistance to vibration, making them suitable for structural joints and prefabricated modular buildings.
Mildew Resistance from Material Structure
Their non-porous molecular structure inhibits microbial growth without relying on added fungicides, offering more stable and long-term mildew resistance.
While silicone sealants remain the top choice for long-term exterior weatherproofing, MS polymer sealants provide a more versatile, environmentally friendly, and paintable solution for both interior and exterior applications. Their balance of strength, safety, and multi-material adhesion makes them increasingly preferred in modern construction, modular housing, and eco-conscious design.
