BUILDEXPO AFRICA 2013: WACKER Presents Novel Polymeric Binders and Silicone Products for Challenging Construction Applications
The Munich-based WACKER Group is presenting innovative polymer and silicone products for challenging construction applications under the motto “Go for the Optimum in Construction” at the 16th Buildexpo Africa in Nairobi. WACKER’s polymer product portfolio comprises highly water-repellent, dispersible polymer powders for decorative ex-terior plasters, and highly flexible waterproofing membranes. In the field of silicone sealant compounds, WACKER is highlighting its novel alpha-silane adhesives and sealants, plus its General Sanitary product line – a new addition to the Classic Line range which is being unveiled to trade experts at Buildexpo for the first time. Buildexpo is Africa’s largest international construction tradeshow. It takes place from May 4 to 6, 2013, in Nairobi, Kenya.
This year’s Buildexpo Africa will, for the first time, see WACKER showcasing its comprehensive expertise in high-quality construction applications. WACKER is focusing on the quality, performance and value-added advantages offered by its products and technologies. These advantages are being underpinned by a number of elaborate exhibits. Experts from WACKER will be on hand to meet with customers and interested parties and to hold in-depth discussions about the products and their application areas.
Versatile and Water Repellent: VINNAPAS® Dispersible Polymer Powders
Waterproofing membranes based on VINNAPAS® dispersible polymer powders seal almost every kind of masonry and thus offer a sure form of lasting “water protection.” At the tradeshow, WACKER is present-ing VINNAPAS® 5044 N, a vinyl acetate-ethylene copolymer intended specifically for this application. What makes this powder special is its relatively high ethylene content, which renders the end product ex-tremely flexible. Further benefits are strong adhesion, even following protracted exposure to water, as well as high elasticity, outstanding crack-bridging ability, and ease of processing. Together, these make VINNAPAS® 5044 N ideal for formulating one-part, cementitious wa-terproofing membranes for long-lasting coating of canals, pipes, cel-lars, swimming pools and damp rooms, such as kitchens and bath-rooms.
For exterior applications, WACKER is presenting VINNAPAS® 8034 H at Buildexpo Africa. This dispersible polymer powder is based on vinyl chloride, ethylene and vinyl laurate and has a powerful hydrophobic effect. It lowers the water uptake of mortars, without compromising their high water-vapor permeability. Added to which, the powder makes the end product extremely easy to process, and confers high abrasion resistance, very good adhesion to all substrates, and en-hanced flexibility. The very good water repellency bestowed by VINNAPAS® 8034 H on formulations makes it ideal for challenging exterior applications, such as decorative plasters and skim coats.
New Silicone Sealant for Sanitary Applications
Silicone sealants have such a diverse range of properties that they have become indispensable in numerous construction applications. At Buildexpo Africa, WACKER is presenting its GP (general purpose) product line as well as its new GS (general sanitary) line. This is the first time the GS line has been shown to the public since being added to the program only a few weeks ago.
Both lines are acetic-curing silicones and, as a result, are particularly rugged, with a long shelf life and good storage stability. The GP prod-uct line is eminently suitable for construction applications, such as renovation and repair work, and sealing. The new GS line additionally provides excellent protection against mildew and rot. It is specifically designed for challenging applications involving high levels of moisture and water vapor typically found in kitchens and bathrooms.
Both lines offer extreme weathering and UV resistance, as well as high abrasion resistance. They also confer compelling levels of adhe-sion to porous and non-porous substrates, ranging from metal to glass and ceramics through to plastic, wood and other substances. The ready-to-use sealants are flexible at both high (150 °C) and low (-50 °C) temperatures and can be applied by hand or machine.
GENIOSIL® N – High-Performance Hybrid Adhesives
WACKER is also showcasing its innovative GENIOSIL® N series of adhesives and sealants at Buildexpo. These fast-curing, one-part hybrid compounds are based on WACKER alpha-silane technology and meet all the technical and ecological requirements imposed on modern adhesives and sealants. GENIOSIL® N products are characterized by a combination of high mechanical strength and crucial elas-tic properties. They are thus predestined for high-stress interior and exterior applications. They offer a reasonable pot life and a long shelf life. GENIOSIL® N adheres well to a highly diverse range of sub-strates and can easily be painted. The product portfolio comprises all kinds of sealants, ranging from a highly transparent adhesive sealant for invisible joints to high-strength construction adhesives.
Visit WACKER at the Buildexpo Africa 2013, booth B116.