Sealants have many classifications based on their chemical composition, properties, and functionality. Before going to the store, it is better to familiarize yourself in advance with the main characteristics of the glue on the Internet and mark several specific modifications and manufacturers that are necessary for this particular type of work, for example, decide whether you need a sanitary sealant or a universal one. For each type of glue, there are many identical names, and the box with the sealant is very small, and detailed instructions for use do not always fit there.
Depending on the complexity of its polymer composition, there are several types of glue:
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One-Component Sealants
They are sold as a ready-to-use mixture with one main active ingredient. Such a sealant does not require additional manipulations, it is already ready for work after opening the container and contact of the composition with air. It is worth remembering that as soon as the integrity of the packaging is broken, you must immediately start working because soon the glue will harden, even if no one touched it.
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Two-Component Sealants
The two-component sealant comes with an activator (catalyst), which must be added after opening the package. Only then will the reaction begin and the composition will be ready for use. There are different types of glue additives, and if work is impossible without them, they are usually included in a set in a separate package. Most often, they can be purchased additionally if the substance was not enough to dilute the entire volume of glue or the coveted bag was lost.
The main classification of sealants is considered to be separated based on the main active element in the mixture:
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Polyurethane Sealant:
It has very high strength and durability, therefore it is often used in industry. But for household purposes, it is also suitable if you need to fasten and form gaskets, as well as seal the seams of the car. However, its increased adhesion to other materials also has a downside – in its properties, it is similar to polyurethane glue, therefore it holds everything tightly, so such a sealant is not suitable for movable and collapsible parts of the mechanism.
A seam made with a polyurethane sealant is not afraid of moisture or aggressive sun, so the glue is often used for outdoor work, especially when repairing the roof of buildings. Also, polyurethane sealant actively resists the effects of strong chemicals, so when repairing a car after applying it, you can treat everything from above with a protective or anti-corrosion coating. With excellent elasticity and resistance to deformation, this glue is also good for repairing building facades.
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Anaerobic Sealant:
It is a fairly strong agent used to seal joints and create gaskets in threaded sections of both pipes and various mechanisms, for example, flanges. The peculiarity of anaerobic compounds is that they solidify, in fact, without contact with air, but through polymerization in contact with metal. This drying method ensures maximum bond durability and strength.
Before buying such a sealant, you must clearly understand for which elements it will be used because depending on this, you will need a tool of varying degrees of strength. So, an anaerobic adhesive sealant with a low degree of strength should be used for joints that are in constant motion, exposed to heavy loads, or frequent dismantling.