ASTM C1087-23 PDF

Overview

ASTM C1087-23: Standard Test Method for Determining Compatibility of Liquid-Applied Sealants with Accessories Used in Structural Glazing Systems establishes a laboratory screening procedure to assess the compatibility of liquid-applied structural glazing sealants in contact with system accessories. Key accessories evaluated include dry glazing gaskets, spacers, shims, and setting blocks. The method exposes specimens to heat and ultraviolet light, simulating real-world conditions, and observes color and adhesion changes in the sealant. Compatibility is critical, as the sealant not only acts as the structural adhesive but may also serve as the primary weather seal in structural glazing systems.

This test method plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of structural sealant glazing systems and preventing premature failures due to accessory-induced degradation.

Key Topics

• Sealant Compatibility Testing: Comprehensive assessment of the interactions between liquid-applied sealants and glazing accessories.
• Laboratory Screening Procedure: Standardized method for exposing specimens to UV light and heat to replicate actual service conditions.
• Evaluation Parameters:
  • Change in sealant color
  • Change in adhesion to glass
  • Change in adhesion to the specific accessory
• Assessment of Accessory Materials: Involves commonly used materials such as gaskets, spacers, shims, and setting blocks.
• Result Interpretation: Comparison between test and control specimens to identify discoloration, adhesion loss, or other changes.
• Significance for Structural Glazing: Identifies potential issues before materials are deployed in the field, reducing risk of failure.

Applications

ASTM C1087-23 is widely used within the construction, architectural, and building materials sectors, specifically for:

• Quality Assurance: Provides manufacturers, fabricators, and specifiers with a reliable method to verify the compatibility of chosen sealants and glazing accessories prior to installation.
• Product Development: Supports the R&D process for new sealant formulations and accessory materials by providing a standardized evaluation method.
• Risk Mitigation: Helps avoid real-world failures such as loss of adhesion or aesthetic issues (e.g., staining, discoloration) in structural glazing applications.
• Specification Compliance: Assists project stakeholders in meeting industry best practices and regulatory requirements for structural glazing systems’ performance and longevity.
• Laboratory Validation: Laboratories use this method to validate sealant and accessory performance under controlled, repeatable conditions.

Related Standards

• ASTM C717: Terminology of Building Seals and Sealants - Provides definitions of key terms used in ASTM C1087-23.
• Structural Glazing Standards: While there is currently no directly comparable ISO standard for this test, ASTM C1087-23 serves as the primary international reference for structural sealant-accessory compatibility.
• Building Sealant Standards: For related testing of sealant properties and system durability.

By following ASTM C1087-23, professionals in the glazing and construction industries can ensure their structural glazing systems are robust, durable, and resistant to common failures caused by incompatible materials. The test method enables reliable evaluation of sealant-accessory interactions and supports the long-term performance and safety of buildings utilizing structural glazing technology. For more technical information or to purchase the official standard, visit the ASTM International website.