Our Silicone Heritage

GE Silicones to Today

A Legacy of Innovation

from 1938 to Present Day

With roots stretching back to GE Silicones in the 1930s, we have been shaping high-performance silicone technology for nearly a century.

From the silicone used in the moon landing space boots to the first high-performance silicone sealants for construction, our history is built on decades of innovation and real-world results.

In 2006, Momentive Performance Materials became the global licensee of GE branded silicone sealants and coatings, continuing the tradition of turning advanced silicone technology into practical construction solutions. Today, we continue to deliver silicone products trusted worldwide for building envelope applications - including roof coatings, air and water barriers, architectural coatings, weathersealing, structural glazing, and insulating glass.

From major commercial projects to iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, our expertise and legacy ensure architects, contractors, and builders can rely on our silicones for lasting, high-performance results.

1938

The “Silicone Project” starts at the General Electric company in New York.

1947

The first silicone plant in Waterford, NY opens.

1960s

The first GE sealants and roof coatings are introduced.

1964

GE roof coatings are featured at the New York World’s Fair.

1969

Our silicone plays a part in the Apollo Moon landing.

1974

Chicago Art Institute, the world’s first four-sided structural glazing building without safety mechanisms, is complete with our silicone products.

1977

Our high-strength, two-part silicone technology used for insulating glass is introduced; changing the way glass and facades are fabricated.

2008

The world’s tallest four-sided structurally glazed façade, Shanghai World Financial Center, is complete with our structural and weatherseal sealants.

2010s

Clear Optic Architectural Coatings and Elemax Air and Water-Resistive Barrier Coatings are launched, helping to enhance, preserve and protect building exteriors.

2020

UltraGlaze SSG4650 Sealant launches as a next-generation solution that achieves 30 psi tensile design strength while maintaining high flexibility – enabling the most ambitious structural glazing façade.