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Adheseal Silicone N80: A Technical Overview
Adheseal N-80 is a 100% pure, neutral curing architectural grade silicone sealant engineered for the most demanding structural glazing, construction, and engineering applications. Formulated without extenders or plasticisers, it delivers exceptional, long-term performance, UV stability, and colour fastness. N-80 is exceptionally easy to apply and tool, curing via atmospheric humidity to form a permanently elastic, dust-proof, and waterproof seal.
Designed to function as a high-performance flexible gasket, it is ideal for sealing joints between dissimilar materials and accommodating high movement in construction and manufacturing. Its low VOC formulation meets "Green Star" environmental criteria, making it a preferred choice for modern, compliant building projects where air quality is a priority.
±30%
Dynamic Joint Movement Capability, accommodating significant structural shifts and thermal expansion to prevent sealant failure.
Core Features & Specifications
- 100% Pure Silicone Polymer: Delivers maximum durability, colour stability, and resistance to shrinking or cracking over time, unlike extended or filled sealants.
- Neutral Cure System (Oxime): Non-corrosive and safe for use on sensitive and metallic substrates like galvanised steel, zinc, aluminium, and concrete without causing damage or staining.
- Exceptional Movement Capability (±30%): Accommodates extreme joint expansion and contraction, making it ideal for high-movement façade, structural, and perimeter joints.
- Low VOC Formulation (43 g/L): Meets Green Star environmental criteria, ensuring suitability for internal applications and projects with strict air quality standards.
- Broad Service Temperature Range (-50°C to 150°C): Maintains permanent flexibility and adhesion through the most extreme Australian climate conditions, from alpine winters to desert heat.
- Mould & Mildew Resistant: Formulated with inhibitors to resist biological growth, making it perfect for high-humidity areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and around pools.
The Adheseal Silicone N80 Advantage
- Reduce Costly Call-Backs: The 100% pure silicone formulation provides superior longevity and UV resistance, ensuring a reliable seal that won't fail, protecting your reputation and bottom line.
- Achieve Design & Compliance Confidence: Specified for architectural structural glazing with a ±30% movement capability and low VOC compliance, N-80 meets the technical demands of engineers and Green Star requirements.
- Increase On-Site Efficiency: Exceptionally smooth to gun and tool, with a 10-minute skin time that allows for a perfect finish without rush, getting the job done right the first time.
- Guarantee System Compatibility: The neutral cure chemistry is non-corrosive, ensuring guaranteed adhesion and performance on a huge range of building materials including glass, aluminium, steel, ceramics and sanitary acrylics.
Best Practices: Do's & Don'ts
Do
- Always prepare non-porous surfaces with the two-wipe solvent process (e.g., Adheseal IPA Cleaner) for optimal adhesion.
- Use an open-cell backing rod in joints deeper than 10mm to ensure correct sealant depth and prevent 3-sided adhesion.
- Tool the sealant surface within 5 minutes of application for a professional, clean-edged finish.
- Conduct a preliminary stain test when using on porous natural stone to ensure aesthetic compatibility.
Don't
- Never apply in a totally enclosed space, as the sealant requires atmospheric moisture to cure correctly.
- Do not use for structural applications involving composite panels or for adhering mirrors.
- Avoid painting over the cured sealant, as paint will not adhere to the low-energy silicone surface.
- Do not allow contact with unapproved cleaning agents or solvents during cure, as they can cause discolouration.
Applications in Practice: Trade Scenarios
For Glaziers & Façade Engineers: Structural Butt & Cap Beading
The Engineering Challenge
Sealing structural glass façades where high movement from thermal cycling and wind load is expected, and long-term UV resistance is critical to prevent premature sealant degradation and failure.
The System-Based Solution with N-80
Use N-80 for weather sealing butt joints and cap beads, ensuring a minimum 5mm sealant bite onto both surfaces. Its ±30% movement capability handles dynamic loads, while its pure silicone base guarantees no loss of adhesion or colour fade from harsh UV exposure.
Best Practice Note
For optimal adhesion on powder-coated aluminium frames or anodised finishes, prepare the surface with Adheseal IPA Cleaner using the two-wipe method. Ensure the backing rod is placed correctly to achieve a 2:1 width-to-depth ratio for the sealant joint.
For Tilers & Builders: Resilient Wet Area & Perimeter Joints
The Engineering Challenge
Creating a durable, waterproof, and mould-resistant seal in high-humidity environments like bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens, particularly in movement-prone wall-to-floor and corner junctions.
The System-Based Solution with N-80
Apply a 5mm minimum bead of N-80 into perimeter and connection joints for tiles, splashbacks, and sanitaryware. Its neutral cure is compatible with ceramic tiles, acrylics, and metals, while active fungicides inhibit mould growth. The ±30% flexibility prevents cracking when substrates inevitably move.
Best Practice Note
After application, tool the sealant with a spatula moistened with a non-soap-based solution to create a clean, concave profile. This ensures water runs off the joint surface effectively, enhancing long-term performance. Remove masking tape immediately after tooling for the sharpest lines.
Performance Benchmark: N-80 vs. Standard Sealants
| Metric | Adheseal Silicone N-80 | Standard Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joint Movement Capability | ±30% Excellent | ±25% | Superior flexibility reduces the risk of cohesive failure in dynamic and high-movement joints. |
| Base Polymer | 100% Pure Silicone Superior Durability | Filled / Extended Silicone | Guarantees long-term UV resistance and performance integrity without shrinkage or plasticiser bleed. |
| Substrate Compatibility | Non-Corrosive Neutral Cure Safe for all Metals | Acetoxy (Acid) Cure | Will not corrode sensitive metals like zinc, copper, brass or galvanised steel, or attack concrete. |
| VOC Content | 43 g/L Green Star Compliant | >50 g/L | Safer for installers and building occupants; suitable for environmentally sensitive or internal projects. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can N80 Architectural Grade Silicone be used in swimming pools?
N80 Silicone is suitable for use around swimming pools, provided regular maintenance is carried out. It must be fully cured before water exposure. For submersion or waterline applications, confirm compatibility with site-specific conditions or contact Adheseal for pretesting.
How long does N80 Silicone take to cure?
N80 develops a skin in approximately 10 minutes and cures at 2mm per day at 25°C and 50% humidity. Actual cure time depends on joint depth, temperature, and humidity.
Is N80 Silicone paintable?
No. N80 is a non-paintable silicone. Attempting to paint over it may result in peeling or poor adhesion. Choose a paintable acrylic or hybrid sealant if painting is required.
What substrates is N80 suitable for?
N80 bonds well to glass, ceramics, fibreglass, anodised metals, enamel, acrylics, and more. It is not recommended for polycarbonate, brass, or copper without stain testing. For composite panels or mirror adhesives, use specific tested alternatives.
What joint size and depth should I use for structural glazing?
Use a 2:1 width-to-depth ratio. Minimum width/depth is 10mm for external joints. For deeper joints, a backing rod must be used to control sealant depth and promote optimal flexibility.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Structural glazing and curtain wall joints | Maintains strong, flexible adhesion under dynamic load and UV exposure | Glaziers, Builders |
| Tiled corner joints and splashbacks | Prevents water ingress and mould growth in wet areas | Tilers, Waterproofers |
| Joint sealing between dissimilar materials | Accommodates thermal movement without delamination | Builders, Carpenters, Fitout Contractors |
| Kitchen & bathroom benchtops | Forms hygienic, mildew-resistant seal on ceramic, acrylic, or laminate | Cabinetmakers, Plumbers |
| Poolside tiling and coping joints | UV-stable, water-resistant seal ideal for external wet areas | Pool Contractors, Waterproofers |
Applying N80 Architectural Grade Silicone: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
-
Surface Preparation
All surfaces must be clean, dry, structurally sound, and free from oils, dust, and contaminants.
Impervious Substrates
Use a two-wipe process with clean cloths and IPA Cleaner or 100% White Spirits.
Porous Substrates
Ensure concrete is cured for 28 days. Brush off dust and pre-prime with Primer 2001 if needed.
Timing: Prep immediately before sealant application to prevent recontamination.Pro Tip: Mask joint edges with tape for a cleaner finish and easier cleanup. -
Joint Design
Use a 2:1 width-to-depth ratio. Ensure minimum depth of 5mm internal, 10mm external.
Backer Rod Use
Use open-cell backing rod 25% larger than joint width to control sealant depth.
Flat Joints
Use polyethylene tape to prevent three-sided adhesion.
Timing: During layout stage before caulking begins.Pro Tip: Ensure rod is not twisted or compressed during insertion to avoid air pockets. -
Sealant Application
Apply between 5°C and 40°C using a caulking gun with 45° cut nozzle.
Push Method
Hold gun at 45°, push sealant ahead to ensure good contact with both sides.
Tooling
Smooth bead with moistened spatula within 5 minutes of application.
Timing: Skin forms in ~10 minutes; complete tooling before this.Pro Tip: Remove masking tape before skin forms to avoid tearing.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Not suitable for totally confined spaces — requires atmospheric humidity to cure.
Do not use for aquarium construction. Use Adheseal Contractors Silicone instead.
Not recommended for adhering mirrors — use High Power 609 with prior adhesion test.
Avoid use on composite panels or polycarbonate sheeting — compatibility must be confirmed.
May discolour copper and brass. Conduct stain testing on sensitive substrates.
Not paintable. If a paintable joint is needed, choose an acrylic or hybrid alternative.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Wear suitable gloves (e.g. nitrile), eye protection, and long sleeves. Avoid prolonged skin contact. Wash thoroughly after handling.
Ventilation Requirements
Ensure adequate ventilation during application, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas. Use outdoors where possible.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Keep away from open flames and ignition sources. Do not smoke during application. Store between 10°C and 35°C in a cool, dry place.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Flush gently with lukewarm water for 5 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin:
Brush off particles and wash with lukewarm water. If irritation develops, seek medical advice.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air. If symptoms persist, contact a Poisons Information Centre or doctor.
Swallowed:
Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and drink water. Seek medical attention immediately.
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
N80 Architectural Grade Silicone Application Guide
Glass & Anodised Aluminium
Surface Preparation
Ensure surface is clean, dry, and free of dust, oil, or oxides. Use IPA Cleaner for final wipe. Avoid fingerprints after cleaning.
Primer Requirements
No primer typically required
Test adhesion if long-term water exposure is expected.
Ceramic Tiles & Vitreous Enamel
Surface Preparation
Wipe with clean cloth and IPA. Tiles must be firmly fixed and dry.
No primer typically required
For porous grout lines, use Primer 2001 if sealant adhesion is poor.
Concrete, Stone, and Cementitious Surfaces
Surface Preparation
Substrate must be fully cured (28 days), dry, and dust-free. Use a stiff brush followed by solvent wipe.
Primer required for critical applications
Use Primer 2001. Always pretest for staining and compatibility.
Primer 2001Laminated Surfaces & Acrylic
Surface Preparation
Ensure surface is clean and wax-free. Wipe with IPA and dry cloth.
Primer recommended for optimal adhesion
Use Primer 50A if delamination is observed or high water exposure expected.
Primer 50A
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