EPDM I Outdoor Storage in Sun and Rain
Unprotected Outdoor Storage of Tunnel Segment Seals
Due to the excellent aging and weather resistance of EPDM sealing profiles (ethylene propylene diene monomer), we see no issues with the durability of our bonded seals during unprotected outdoor storage for up to one year.
Even under extreme weather conditions, such as intense sunlight or significant temperature fluctuations (-30°C to +40°C), no damage or impairment of the physical properties of our sealing profiles is to be expected within this period. This is partly due to our special compound.
EPDM – Resistant to Ozone and Weather Conditions
The main advantage of our EPDM compared to other elastomer types lies in the absence of a double bond in the structure of the macromolecules of this material, as well as in its saturated main chain. As a result, incoming UV radiation does not cause excitation that would lead to material degradation. This essentially explains the excellent UV and ozone resistance of our EPDM sealing profiles.
Experience and tests have shown that outdoor storage of our seals and adhesive bonds for one year or more poses no problem.
The prerequisite is precise bonding with our G3000 Plus assembly adhesive according to our installation instructions. If partial detachment of the sealing profiles is detected during outdoor storage due to improper installation or bonding, the adhesion can be repaired at any time by applying our G3000 Plus using the "brush-on" method.
"Thanks to its durable compound, our EPDM is the perfect outdoor rubber and can be stored outdoors for extended periods."
What to consider when temperatures are below freezing: Avoid outdoor storage at subzero temperatures if the sealing profiles were bonded to warm, freshly demolded segments with surface moisture. In this case, the escaping water cannot properly evaporate through the adhesive layer. Immediate outdoor storage could potentially damage the bond if it cracks due to frost.
Matthias Klug, Managing Director
7 GOOD REASONS FOR EPDM
- Excellent ozone and oxygen resistance
- Good resistance to high temperatures (up to 120°C) in both dry and humid environments
- Remains flexible down to -40°C and is reversible even after freezing
- High resistance to permanent deformation
- Good mechanical properties and high elasticity even after prolonged aging
- Good resistance to various chemicals
- Excellent water impermeability