Silicone Sealants for an Ambitious Project
This year, GE branded Sealants will be an integral part of an ambitious project to transform Kuwait Airport into a new regional air hub in the gulf.
The multi-million dollar contract will see GE branded Insulating Glass Sealants, Structural Glazing Sealants, and Weatherseal used in the creation of a new state of the art terminal with a ground-breaking, environmentally-sustainable design.
The flagship project, which is one of the largest active construction works in the Middle East, will see the airport add capacity for an additional 13 million passengers each year. Construction began in May 2017, with the terminal set for completion by 2021.
A Modern Architectural Marvel
The distinctive, ambitious architectural design of the new terminal is unique – it’s been inspired by local art and traditions, with the exterior façade referencing the ‘Al Saud’ pattern used by Kuwaiti nomads in the fabric of their tents.
The design features three symmetrical wings of departure gates – with facades measuring 1.2km (0.75 miles) extending from an imposing 25m-high central space. The entire terminal features a single roof canopy with glazed openings designed to filter daylight and deflect solar radiation.
The project aims to be the world’s first terminal to attain LEED gold certification – making it the most environmentally friendly airport terminal in the world. To achieve this, the building needs to perform in one of the hottest and most challenging environments on the planet.
Pushing the Boundaries with GE Silicones
A range of GE Silicones solutions have been chosen for the project to support the delivery of its ambitious design, performance and environmental objectives. These include advanced products from our Insulating Glass Sealants, Structural Glazing Sealants, and Weatherseal lines.
Sealing out Extreme Weather – Structural Glazing
For the extensive curtain wall, GE Silicones SSG4400 UltraGlaze is being used to ensure a resilient bond between the glass and the aluminum, copper and steel panels.
Combining strength, durability and flexibility, it will seal out extreme weather and temperature, while providing excellent resilience to pressure and impact.
The project will also utilize SCS2900 from our family of Weatherseal sealants – which will be used to seal the joints of the glazing units and provide excellent resistance to sunlight, ozone and atmospheric pollutants.
Innovation at the Edge – Insulating Glass
GE Silicones IGS3723 Insulating Glass Sealant has been chosen for the edge seals in the manufacture of the new terminal’s structural insulating glass units.
With excellent resistance to UV rays, strong winds and temperature extremes, it’s ideal for the challenging desert conditions of Kuwait – providing lasting performance and energy-efficiency, whilst enabling sweeping, open views across the airport.
Push the Boundaries With GE Silicones
GE Silicones is a world-class line of high-performance, 100% silicone sealants and coatings for the construction industry. Offering a complete range of solutions to protect and enhance the building envelope, we ensure success in bold new construction and major restoration projects worldwide.
