Introduction to silicone sealants for kitchens and recommendations for silane coupling agents
Silicone sealants for kitchens (also known as silicone sealants) are mainly used for waterproofing, mildew prevention, sealing and other scenarios, especially in the installation and repair of countertops, sinks, stoves and other areas. The following are the types of silicone sealants commonly used in the kitchen and their characteristics:
1. Neutral silicone sealant
Features:
- Non-corrosive and non-irritating after curing.
- Good elasticity, strong weather resistance, suitable for humid kitchen environments.
- The temperature resistance range is generally -50℃~150℃.
- Applicable scenarios:
- Sealing the joints between kitchen countertops and walls.
- Waterproof and mildew-proof the edge of the sink.
- Filling the gaps in tiles (need to choose mildew-proof type).
2. Mildew-proof silicone sealant
- Features:
- Adding mildew inhibitors can inhibit the growth of mold (in accordance with ISO 22196 standards).
- Mostly neutral, environmentally friendly and non-toxic.
- Applicable scenarios:
- Sealing around sinks and wet corners.
- Joints of electrical appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers.
3. Food-grade silicone sealant
- Features:
- Passed food contact safety certifications such as FDA and LFGB, non-toxic and harmless.
- High temperature resistant (up to 200℃), water-resistant and oil-resistant.
- Applicable scenarios:
- Sealing of equipment that directly contacts food (such as juicers and food processor interfaces).
- Kitchen countertop joints (must be fully cured before use).
4. High temperature resistant silicone sealant
- Features:
- Temperature resistant up to 250℃~300℃, heat resistant and aging resistant.
- Mostly red or gray, often used in high temperature areas.
- Applicable scenarios:
- Sealing around gas stoves and flue joints.
- Fixing of internal parts of ovens and microwave ovens (safety certification must be confirmed).
5. Quick-drying silicone sealant
- Features:
- Short surface drying time (10-30 minutes), suitable for quick repairs.
- The performance after curing is the same as ordinary silicone.
- Applicable scenarios:
- Emergency repair of countertop cracks or water pipe joints.
6. Transparent colored silicone sealant
- Features:
- Transparent models are beautiful and suitable for visible areas;
- Color models (white, black, gray, etc.) can match the kitchen decoration style.
- Applicable scenarios:
- Sealing of glass countertops and open shelves.
- Joints that need to be coordinated with the color of tiles or cabinets.
Silane coupling agents recommended for neutral silicone sealants
Aminosilanes
γ-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane (SF-S550, APTES)
Advantages:
Significantly improve adhesion to metal, glass, and ceramics (such as stainless steel sinks and tile joints).
Enhance water resistance and moisture and heat resistance to prevent debonding in long-term humid environments.
Good compatibility with neutral silicone adhesive, does not affect the curing performance.
Applicable scenarios:
Kitchen countertop joints, sink edge sealing, hood pipe fixing, etc.