MS Polymer technology is the next generation of high-performance sealant solutions. This innovative technology combines the key benefits of polyurethanes and silicones while addressing their negative characteristics, such as harmful isocyanates and very limited service life.
MS Polymer products have been widely used in the Japanese market for more than 40 years. Adoption in the European market has accelerated due to environmental concerns over isocyanates, while the U.S. Market has lagged due to higher raw material and production costs. With the expansion of manufacturing capabilities over the past few years, MS Polymers are now on a strong growth path in the U.S. and there’s a good reason for that. Their performance is simply unmatched.
When evaluating the technology, CTS recognized that with the broader availability of MS Polymer technology, the innovation it brings to the sealants market space, and its “best-in-class” performance, it fit with CTS’ commitment to providing the most innovative high-performance products to the market.
The Rapid Set® MS Polymer product line provides users with longer service life, greater bond strength, UV resistance, all without isocyanates, which addresses the maintenance and safety concerns with current polyurethane and silicone materials. Though polyurethanes and silicones have been widely used over the years, they must be replaced with a frequency that does not support today’s industry demands for long-term durability.
MS Polymer technology is also more environmentally friendly and safer for the end-user. These products contain no isocyanates, no solvents, and have no odor—which means they can be applied safely both indoors and outdoors.
Rapid Set sealants offer an 8- to 10-year service life, far surpassing the one- to two-year life expectancy of a polyurethane. Rapid Set Sealants bond in the presence of moisture, which makes them ideal for use in wet or damp environments, and suitable for use in new “green concrete” applications.
A strong resistance to UV rays extends service life and contributes to exceptional performance in extreme weather conditions. Rapid Set Sealants do not lose flexibility at low temperatures, which allows them to be applied in sub-freezing conditions and provide excellent performance in freeze thaw environments. In addition, they do not bubble or foam in the presence of moisture, which will deteriorate the integrity of the sealant.
Though these MS Polymer products have a slightly higher up-front cost (an average of 10% higher), when compared to polyurethane or silicones, the extended service life and reduced maintenance costs actually provide a substantial overall cost savings. Aaron Hall, Sealants & Adhesives Product Line Manager at CTS, notes “In today’s competitive marketplace we’re seeing more stringent performance specifications, consumer demand for more sustainable products that extend service life, and a more holistic approach to ensuring maximum value vs. the lowest cost. Rapid Set Sealants deliver on all counts.”
The Rapid Set Self-Leveling Sealant is currently one of the best-selling products in the line. CTS was the first to mass produce and deliver this self-leveling MS Polymer formulation to the U.S. market and consumers have responded. Contractors are reporting fewer callbacks. Consumers and contractors are embracing the environmentally friendly aspects and increased improved safety during installation. And product performance expectations are being met coast-to-coast.
CTS carefully formulated the Self-leveling Sealant while adopting a new generation low viscosity MS Polymer that also addresses phase-separation common with self-leveling sealant products. By carefully selecting raw materials and optimizing the formulation, a high-performance product is now provided to market that also addresses the in-tube separation issue that has long plagued the industry. Today, Hall notes “This is a significant product improvement in the marketplace that will be a game changer.” The Rapid Set Self-Leveling Sealant is indeed, best in class on the global market today.
For more information about the Rapid Set MS Polymer product line, contact info@ctscement.com or call 800-929-3030.
Excerpts in Original Publication: Contractor Supply Magazine. April/May 2021. Industry Update, CTS Rapid Set.
