The Role of Silicone in Construction: A Key Material for Performance Innovation and a Sustainable Future
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I. Core Functions: Sealing, Waterproofing, and Structural Strengthening
Sealing and Bonding: Silicone sealants, thanks to their weather resistance, aging resistance, and temperature resistance, have become a core material for sealing building joints. In the treatment of joints in glass curtain walls, door and window frames, roofs, and walls, their elastic deformation rate can reach 400%, effectively mitigating material displacement caused by temperature and humidity fluctuations. For example, the SS621 low-modulus adhesive developed by Sibao Technology has helped increase the penetration rate of prefabricated buildings in my country from 5% to 30%, significantly enhancing building structural stability.
Waterproofing and Protection: Silicone waterproof coatings and membranes, by forming a breathable waterproof layer, are ideal for waterproofing roofs, basements, and walls. They are weather-resistant from -50°C to 200°C, reduce water absorption by over 90%, and exhibit excellent adhesion to a variety of substrates, including cement mortar, concrete, and wood. For example, the silicone waterproof and breathable coating developed by the Hangzhou Construction Research Institute was listed as a key material for promotion during the Ninth Five-Year Plan period.
Structural Strengthening and Fire Protection: Silicone adhesives are used for structural bonding of stone, glass, and metal panels, improving the seismic performance of buildings. A multifunctional fire-retardant adhesive developed by the University of Science and Technology of China combines a siloxane and phosphate structure to form a dense carbon layer at high temperatures, providing efficient thermal insulation. It can also be used in flame-retardant coatings for wood, reducing fire risks.
II. Technological Frontiers: Intelligent Response and Zero-Carbon Solutions
Smart Material Innovation: Wacker Chemie's temperature-dependent sealant can autonomously adjust its modulus between -30°C and 80°C, reducing joint maintenance costs at the Beijing Winter Olympics venues by 70%. The transparent and flexible polysilsesquioxane aerogel developed by A.I.A.I. New Materials Co., Ltd. achieves high light transmittance and flexibility through a controlled phase separation process. Its application in architectural glass improves energy efficiency.
Green and Low-Carbon Transformation: Dow's bio-based silicone has a 65% lower carbon footprint than traditional products, has achieved LEED Platinum certification, and is being used in the construction of the Xiongan New Area Government Affairs Center. The SiO2@graphene-modified adhesive developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences has a thermal conductivity coefficient reduced to 0.16W/m·K, enabling the Shenzhen Tencent Building to save 3.8 million kWh of electricity annually for air conditioning, pushing the construction industry towards its zero-carbon goals.