SilPruf™ SCS9000 NB Sealant Restores a Pristine Look

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Returning a monument to its full splendor

The Lotus Temple is recognized throughout the world for its architectural brilliance. Inspired by the purity and simplicity of the Bahá’í Faith and its floral namesake, the building features 27 free-standing, white marble-clad petals unfolding into a breathtaking design.

In 2006, the once-pristine cladding was losing its luster after 20 years of exposure to pollution and over four million visitors each year. All 21,000 meters (68,900 feet) of the existing sealant needed to be replaced because it had seeped oils that stained the white marble. SilPruf™ SCS9000 NB sealant offered the ideal mix of attributes to help keep the Lotus Temple exterior weatherproof, looking clean, and easy to maintain.

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Advantages of neutral-cure silicone

The project team selected SilPruf SCS9000 NB sealant primarily for its non-staining formulation and ability to resist dirt pick-up, as well as avoid surface streaking and substrate staining. “A white marble temple in the middle of New Delhi needs to be easy to clean and stain resistant,” said Lotus Temple Maintenance Director J. P. Ambarle. “SilPruf SCS9000 NB sealant had the lowest dirt pick-up in testing.”

Equally important was the outstanding durability, weather resistance, adhesion, and flexibility of SilPruf SCS9000 NB sealant. It offered long-term efficacy in sealing out air and water, as well as the ability to withstand high heat and humidity without degradation.

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Application without interruption

The application process involved unusual challenges. In addition to maneuvering around narrow spaces in the architectural layout, the restoration team needed to work quickly and respectfully in order to maintain daily routine in the Temple and minimize disruptions to prayer. The extended work time and stable consistency of SilPruf SCS9000 NB sealant allowed the team to work efficiently in extremely high heat and humidity without concern of the silicone curing too quickly.

“Its application process worked extremely well in tight and non-traditional spaces,” said Vikram Khanna, proprietor of authorized applicator, Falcon International.

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Enduring results and beauty

‍The entire restoration was completed in one year without any safety incidents—a true feat given the intricate design, limited accessibility, and weather conditions. With the restoration complete, the structure was set to exude its regal splendor and endure New Delhi’s harsh climatic conditions for many years to come.

“We could not have achieved the results we did without the expertise of Falcon International and [the quality of products],” said Ambarle. “[SilPruf SCS9000 NB sealant was] an unparalleled product for our specific needs.”

^{Note: Performance results are those of reported accounts, and are not to be relied upon as typical or expected under any other circumstances. Performance results will vary depending upon a number of factors. Prospective customers should rely solely upon their own evaluative techniques to determine what results are attainable and optimal to their specific needs. Further note that Momentive Performance Materials are not endorsed by or affiliated with the owner(s) of the Lotus Temple.‍}