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How can one determine whether the phenomenon of blistering is caused by the silicone sealant itself or by the substrate?

February 15, 2023

A simple way to distinguish bulging vs bubbling and assess whether the issue is more likely related to the sealant or the substrate, based on surface appearance and cross-section inspection.

How can one determine whether the phenomenon of blistering is caused by the silicone sealant itself or by the substrate?

Judgment of the bulging phenomenon:

Firstly, the joint of the curtain wall panel exposed to sunlight shows a large area of unevenness, while the joints not exposed to sunlight are all smooth;

Secondly, by cutting the joint, it can be seen that the uneven joint has fully cured sealant and is solid.

Judgment of the bubbling phenomenon:

Firstly, the surface of the sealant is mostly continuous or single bubble-like protrusions;

Secondly, when cutting the corresponding position of the sealant, it is hollow, and this may exist on the sunny or shady side of the curtain wall.

How can one determine whether the phenomenon of blistering is caused by the silicone sealant itself or by the substrate?
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