Sealing of Joints in Steel Structures without Surface Treatment

Abstract

This contribution deals with the possible options for the sealing of joints which occur in steel structures without surface treatment. The aim is to obtain a means of sealing joints with the potential for long-term reliability without adhesive and cohesive failures that can then lead to the penetration of undesired humidity into the structure. The task is approached experimentally using test procedures based on current European technical standards. The test substructure, which represents a steel substructure, is made up of CORTEN facade panels intended for the final cladding of buildings without any further surface treatment. A group of 10 industrially-produced, commonly available sealants from 3 manufacturers are included in the experiments. The research brought an answer to the question of the sealability of an unprocessed steel substructure and also solved the issue of the type of sealant most suitable for this purpose.This contribution deals with the possible options for the sealing of joints which occur in steel structures without surface treatment. The aim is to obtain a means of sealing joints with the potential for long-term reliability without adhesive and cohesive failures that can then lead to the penetration of undesired humidity into the structure. The task is approached experimentally using test procedures based on current European technical standards. The test substructure, which represents a steel substructure, is made up of CORTEN facade panels intended for the final cladding of buildings without any further surface treatment. A group of 10 industrially-produced, commonly available sealants from 3 manufacturers are included in the experiments. The research brought an answer to the question of the sealability of an unprocessed steel substructure and also solved the issue of the type of sealant most suitable for this purpose.