Sika is the worldwide technology leader in 1C polyurethane sealants and adhesives (Sikaflex®, SikaTack® and SikaBond®), and develops innovative new technologies such as i-Cure® or PowerCure®, but also Curing-by-Design® and Sika Powerflex® for our 2C polyurethane products SikaForce®. These products offer unique performances well serving the megatrends in the industries and offer value added for customers.
Polyurethanes - one of the most versatile materials, with extreme flexibility and durability
Polyurethane is a versatile polymer, which results from an exothermic chemical reaction. This polymer is created by a reaction between a polyol resin base - alcohols with two or more reactive hydroxyl (-OH groups) - and a hardener also known as isocyanates that have more than one reactive isocyanate group (-NCO).
Consequently, the structure is highly cross-linked and has therefore several advantages over other synthetic materials. The high performance, versatility and durability of polyurethane sealants and adhesives makes them suitable for numerous applications in construction and industrial environments. At the same time, it is so durable that it can be used in building and construction as a high-performance adhesive.
Sikaflex® Sika’s line of professional-grade polyurethane sealants
Polyurethane sealants are used to seal joints in a wide variety of construction applications. Sikaflex® is Sika’s line of professional-grade polyurethane sealants that have outstanding adhesion compatibility, elasticity, durability, paintability and much more. Polyurethane sealants are able to bond to most surfaces, particularly porous substrates such as concrete and masonry. These sealants have a very high bond strength and are ideal in demanding applications.
The great success of Sika’s Sikaflex range is founded on the polyurethane chemistry developed at Sika in the 80’s. Since then several new generations of Sikaflex products were developed on this exceptional technology. In recent years, Sika has explored new possibilities to further develop the polyurethane technology and to combine performance with sustainability and the the latest EHS requirements.
Purform® - the new option in Sika’s Polyurethane range
Polyurethanes are Sika’s leading technology for sealants and adhesives, they outperform other technologies like SMPs and Silicones for most application fields. With Purform® Sika has developed a new backbone that further enhances the properties of a polyurethane. Sikaflex® Purform® adhesives and sealants have an ultra-low free monomeric diisocyanate content, in addition to their other product specific advantages. Users of the Purform® technology benefit from the unique performance of polyurethane, whilst eliminating the need for specific REACH health & safety training. The exposure of users will be reduced and limited to an absolute minimum.
High Strength Adhesives, Highly Flexible Sealants
Purform® is built on the same concept as a polyurethane. Based on a unique combination of hard and soft segments in the polymer chain, it is the base for high strength adhesives for use in automotive and for highly flexible sealants for construction. In both cases it presents high durability even when in contact with moisture.