On-site weathering of sealants under tropical conditions

An on-site weathering rack was developed to simulate the tropical conditions combining the simultaneous effects of joint movement, temperature, humidity, rainfall, water retention and sunlight. The simulated movement of joints was achieved by utilizing the high level of extension and contraction of aluminium under temperature change. The 10-m long aluminium rack with concrete slabs bolted on it allows sealants to be tested on concrete surfaces. Test results have shown that the rack is efficient in subjecting test specimens to real level construction joint movements exposed to the tropical environment.