Analysis of silicone adhesive joints applied on samples of aluminum, steel and metal composite panels

Abstract

It is common to use mechanical fasteners and electrochemical joining of elements by welding - all of which nowadays represent traditional fastening methods. However, in some situations it is justified to use alternative bonding methods such as adhesives. Adhesives are widely used fastening method in the aerospace and motorcycle industries, while in construction they are mostly used in facade structures, structural glazing and secondary structural elements. The application of certain adhesives depends on many factors, and some of the most important are: the material to be joined, the conditions in which the connection takes place, the thickness of the layer, the required setting time, etc. In this paper, a theoretical review was given, together with results of experimental tests performed on two types of joints made of silicone: double-lap shear (shear joints) and pull-off (tension joints). The applied structural adhesive was Sikasil SG-18. The samples which were used consisted of steel, aluminum and MCM (metal composite material).