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Acrylic
Acrylic Foam
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©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 1 of 73 >

Acrylic Foam Tape for Structural Glazing & Architectural

Panel Applications
Presented by: 3M Corporate Headquarters
3M Industrial Adhesives & Tapes Division
3M Center
St. Paul, MN 55144-1000
Description: Acrylic foam tape is a two-sided, closed-cell acrylic foam, pressure-sensitive adhesive. It
is adhesive throughout its entire construction, including the foam core. This course
evaluates the physical properties, performance characteristics, and design benefits of
using acrylic foam tapes for structural glazing and architectural panel applications.
To ensure the accuracy of this program material, this course is valid only when listed on
AEC Daily’s Online Learning Center. Please click here to verify the status of this course.
If the course is not displayed on the above page, it is no longer offered.
The American Institute of Architects · Course No. AEC706 · This program qualifies for 1.0 LU/HSW Hour.
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earned on completion of this program will be reported to AIA/CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-
AIA members are available upon request. This program is registered with AIA/CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not
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such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed
to be an approval or endorsement by the RCEP.

Purpose and Learning Objectives
Purpose: Acrylic foam tape is a two-sided, closed-cell acrylic foam, pressure-sensitive

adhesive. It is adhesive throughout its entire construction, including the foam core. This
course evaluates the physical properties, performance characteristics, and design benefits
of using acrylic foam tapes for structural glazing and architectural panel applications.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of this program, participants will be able to:
• describe the physical and performance characteristics of acrylic foam tapes
• summarize the features and benefits of acrylic foam tape and the added value that each
can bring to the fabricator, engineer, architect, developer, and building owner
• identify key design elements when using acrylic foam tapes for structural glazing and
architectural panel applications
• explain the fabrication process when using acrylic foam tapes, and identify exterior and
interior structural glazing and panel bonding applications that would benefit from this
technology.

This CEU is registered with the Interior Design Continuing Education Council (IDCEC) for continuing
education credits. This credit will be accepted by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID),
International Interior Designers Association (IIDA) and Interior Designers of Canada (IDC).
The content included is not deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by IDCEC of any
material or construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing or dealing in any
material or product.
Questions related to specific materials, methods and services should be directed to the instructor
or provider of this CEU.
This program is registered for 0.1 CEU value. The IDCEC class-code is: CC-103478-1000.
• This CEU will be reported on your behalf to IDCEC and you will receive an email notification. Please
log in and complete the electronic survey for this CEU.
• Certificates of completion will be automatically issued once you have submitted the online survey for
this CEU.
• Attendees who do not belong to ASID, IIDA or IDC and do not have a unique IDCEC number will be
provided with a Certificate of Completion after this CEU.

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Table of Contents
Introduction to Acrylic Foam Tapes 8
Physical & Performance Properties 18
Benefits to Facade Applications 33
Design Elements & Guidelines 41
Application Examples & Reference Projects 54
Summary & Resources 70
Click on title to view

Introduction to
Acrylic Foam Tapes

Background
Acrylate pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA)

technology has been in use since the early 1960s.
Acrylic foam tapes are an example of this high-
performance, durable bonding technology and
were first introduced in 1980.
Acrylic foam tape is a two-sided, closed-cell

acrylic foam, pressure-sensitive adhesive. It has
been used in the construction industry since the
early 1980s to bond to a wide range of substrates
including most metals, glass, many plastics,
composites, sealed wood, paints, and powder
coatings.

Background
Acrylic foam tape is a specific type of foam

tape that is available with a variety of
characteristics for a range of applications, and
may be used to replace liquid adhesives, spot
welds, screws, rivets, and other mechanical
fasteners. It offers high strength and UV- and
weather-resistant adhesion for permanent
bonding applications, and is suitable for both
indoor and outdoor applications.
The focus of this course is acrylic foam tape

products that are created and tested for use in
structural glazing and architectural panel
attachment applications.

Architectural Panel Applications
Acrylic foam tapes have been used since 1980

for architectural panel attachment to
framework and stiffener bonding.
Acrylic foam architectural panel tapes are now

used for many applications in the construction
industry, including the manufacture of
Exterior application.
architectural panels for curtain walls, exterior Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles, CA.
building cladding, and interior panel and trim
attachment.
In many situations, architectural panel tapes

can replace rivets, spot welds, liquid
adhesives, sealants, and other permanent
fasteners, and provide immediate handling
strength during the fabrication process.
Interior application.
Liberty Memorial Museum, Kansas City, MO.

Structural Glazing Applications
In 1990, the use of high-bond, acrylic foam tapes

in the building facade industry spread to
structural glazing.
Today, acrylic foam structural glazing tapes are

used in the global construction marketplace to
attach glass to metal frames in curtain walls,
skylights and canopies, and commercial windows
and doors, replacing commonly used mechanical
fasteners, gaskets, or structural silicone sealants.

Structural Glazing: Conventional Methods
Conventional methods of bonding glass panels to a metal frame employ either one-part or
two-part structural silicone sealants (wet glazing) or gaskets and mechanical fasteners
(dry glazing)
 Wet glazing describes the method of bonding glass panels to metal frames using either
a liquid-applied one- or two-part silicone structural sealant.
 Dry glazing is not considered structural glazing as it utilizes a gasket of rubber or vinyl
to surround the perimeter of the glass panel, and this in turn is mechanically captured
by the window frame.
In these systems, a double-sided, open-cell foam tape (spacer tape) is used to provide a
temporary holding of the glass and to create the necessary open space (face clearance)
for the structural sealant. The dimension of the spacer tape is determined by the required
sealant bite (width) and bead thickness. The bond should not be disturbed during the
curing of the silicone sealant, and it may take days to weeks to achieve handling strength
and full cure.

Structural Glazing with Acrylic Foam Tape
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape is an

alternative bonding method that can provide
the performance needed with immediate
handling strength. It replaces both the spacer
tape and structural sealant, and there is no
curing reaction involved in bond strength
development.
 Note, “spacer tape” is sometimes referred

to as “structural glazing tape” and should
not be confused with “acrylic foam
structural glazing tape.”

Structural Glazing Type Comparison
Here are two typical structural glazing sections which illustrate the difference between
acrylic foam tape glazing and wet glazing with structural silicone sealant.
Typical acrylic foam tape Typical structural silicone

structural glazing system glazing system
Vertical split Vertical split
mullion mullion
Acrylic foam Spacer
Structural
structural tape or
silicone
glazing tape sealant gasket
Weather sealant Weather sealant
One bonding component Two bonding components

An acrylic foam structural glazing tape curtain wall system is based on the tape acting as
the main bonding agent between the glass and the structural glazing frame. The wind load
forces acting on the facade are transferred through the structural glazing tape to the
structure of the building. The tape must maintain its strong bonding performance and
strength in order to support the glass panels during high wind load and other
environmental related events.
It is important to note that whenever an acrylic foam structural glazing tape project is
initiated, a comprehensive process protocol—including review of the project by the
manufacturer, adhesion testing, training of the fabricator, and in-process audits—must be
followed to promote a successful project.
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape is usually only considered for four-sided or two-sided
structural glazing applications that are assembled in a temperature controlled production
environment. Years of testing and thousands of real-life applications demonstrate the
high-performance capability of this tape to meet the demanding requirements of this
application.

As architects, glazing and panel system manufacturers, fabricators, and contractors

discover its features and analyze potential production cost and time savings, acrylic foam
tapes for structural glazing and architectural panel applications have become a viable
choice for specifiers of curtain wall systems.
The remainder of this course discusses

the physical and performance properties,
and testing standards and fabrication
methods, of acrylic foam tapes for
structural glazing and architectural panel
applications. Detailed drawings, case
studies, and a short video are also used
to demonstrate the capabilities and
functions of this tape.

Physical & Performance

Properties

Composition
Conventional spacer tapes, sometimes referred to as structural glazing tapes, are

characterized by a foam core with a thin adhesive skin on two opposing sides. The only
adhesive portion is the thin skin which contacts the glass and glazing profile. While spacer
tapes have been referred to as structural glazing tapes, they provide minimal strength but
serve to create a space or pocket for structural silicone sealant. Their internal foam
strength is generally low as high strength is not required from this tape in this application.
In comparison, acrylic foam structural glazing tape is an acrylic adhesive throughout its
entire construction, including the foam core. This is essential since it is the primary bonding
component in the glazing system. The chemical bonds that make up the polymer chains
consist of carbon-carbon single bonds that are highly resistant to energy in the form of heat
or ultraviolet light, as well as chemical attack. In less durable foams or adhesives, such
conditions could lead to cleaving of the polymer backbone and thus a weakening of
mechanical properties.

Composition
Acrylic Foam Tape Bonding System Conventional Wet Glazed System
Structural glazing or Spacer tape / Silicone

architectural panel tape
Spacer Structural
tape silicone
Adhesive skin
All adhesive
construction Non-adhesive
(cross-section) foam core
Adhesive skin
Single bonding component Two bonding components
The unique composition of acrylic foam structural glazing tape gives it its performance
properties including viscoelasticity, strength, durability, resistance to moisture and
chemicals, productivity, convenience, and uniform appearance. These properties are the
reason acrylic foam structural glazing tapes play a significant role in design of commercial
building facades.

Viscoelasticity
Viscous materials are inherently tacky and flexible yet resist

shear flow and strain when a stress is applied. Elastic
materials strain when a stress is applied and return to their
original state once the stress is removed. Viscoelastic
materials have elements of both of these properties and, as
such, exhibit time and force dependent strain.
Acrylic foam tape has an inherent ability to absorb energy

and disperse stresses into the foam core, thereby providing
strength and protecting the bond line. Its viscoelasticity
enables it to tolerate both shear and tensile stresses allowing
it to absorb shock and permit movement, and thereby proving
reliable against wind, vibration, and thermal
expansion/contraction.
The viscoelastic properties of acrylic foam tape enable it to

perform in ways that conventional foam tapes are unable to.

Durability
The closed-cell construction of acrylic foam tape enables it to form a strong bond and act
as a secondary weather seal in structural glazing applications. The acrylic chemistry
provides a high level of resistance against UV light, weathering, and humidity exposure.
Acrylic foam tapes have a proven performance history in the construction market.
 1980 Acrylic foam tapes were introduced
 1984 Acrylic foam tapes used for bonding stiffeners on architectural panels in a
Singapore tower
 1990 Acrylic foam tapes were first used to replace structural silicone sealants for
structural glazing
The ability of acrylic foam tape adhesives to withstand cold and hot temperatures, UV light
exposure, humidity, and other environmental conditions has been well documented through
both real-life and accelerated aging studies. Accelerated aging tests are conducted by
subjecting bonded samples to cycling heat, humidity, and xenon arc UV lamp exposure,
and measuring the dynamic tensile, shear, and peel strength values.

Thermal Properties
R-value is a measure of the capacity of a material, such as insulation, to impede heat flow.
R-values can be calculated from thermal conductivity, K, and the thickness of the material.
R-value = Thickness
K-value
Thermal transmission of acrylic foam structural glazing tape vs. structural silicone
K-values:
 Acrylic Foam Structural Glazing Tape = 0.952 BTU in/hr ft2 °F (0.1373 W/m•K)
 Structural Silicone = 2.427 BTU in/hr ft2 °F (0.350 W/m•K)
R-values:
 Acrylic Foam Structural Glazing Tape (0.09" or 2.3 mm) = 0.09 ft²·°F·hr/BTU
 Structural Silicone (0.25" or 6 mm) = 0.10 ft²·°F·hr/BTU

A Note About Performance Testing
Acrylic foam tapes have been evaluated in a number of key construction related tests for
building facade applications. This includes independent testing over the last few decades,
dating back to the 1980s.
Early independent third-party testing was conducted in the U.S. and Brazil and included
structural performance tests of acrylic foam structural glazing tapes in four-sided structural
glazing systems.
The following slides provide an overview of third-party performance testing that has been
completed to evaluate the physical and performance properties of acrylic foam structural
glazing tape. Please contact individual manufacturers for more details regarding the testing
of specific tape products.

Viscoelasticity: Performance Testing
Acrylic foam structural glazing tapes have been tested by university labs. The tapes have
met performance requirements in mock-up tests for bomb blast and hurricane rated glazing
systems.
Stress (psi)
Extension (in)
Tensile Strain Rate Study Tensile High Strain Rate Study

Testing and data provided by Virginia Polytechnic Testing and data provided by the University of Waterloo,
Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Virginia, Ontario, Canada
U.S.A.

Durability: Performance Testing
Acrylic foam tapes exhibit excellent durability, comparable to a two-part structural silicone
sealant, in extreme accelerated aging conditions that included high intensity UV light, high
temperature, and high humidity exposure. After 10,000 hours of accelerated exposure, the
survival probabilities for the bonding systems are identical (i.e., none have failed).
A dynamic wind load acting on

a curtain wall panel is best
represented by a tensile strength
test. This graph compares the
original tensile strength of the
bonding system to that after
different levels of exposure, up
to 10,000 hours.

The peel adhesion test demonstrates the adhesive bond strength of the acrylic foam
structural glazing tape to the substrate. Since UV light exposure occurs through the glass,
a peel test of the tape off the glass substrate was conducted in the same study. It is critical
to maintain a good adhesive bond to the glass substrate after years of exposure.

Water can hydrolyze not only the chemical bonds of every polymer backbone, but also the
bonding of an adhesive to the substrate’s surface. This phenomenon may appear even at
room temperature and may cause both cohesive and adhesive failure. Adhesion tests have
been performed on acrylic foam tape bonds of aluminum to aluminum that were subjected
to ten years of submersion in 5% salt water and ordinary tap water.
This graph summarizes the data

collected during a water submersion
test, and as shown, long-term
exposure to water or high humidity
causes no significant reduction in
adhesion of the acrylic foam tape to
the substrate. This makes polymer
more tolerant of high elongation and
parallels the behavior of structural
silicone sealants in the same
environment.

Performance Testing: An Overview
Specific acrylic foam tapes meet the performance requirements for structural glazing and
cladding applications. Some of the performance tests are identified below. Consult
manufacturers regarding specific tests and results for their products.
 Wind load structural (ASTM E330, E1233, AS/NZS 4284)

 Air/water infiltration (ASTM E283, E331)
 Temperature cycling (AAMA 501.5)
 Seismic (AAMA 501.4 & 501.6)
 Blast (ASTM F1642, GSA-TS01-2003)
 Glazing material properties (ETAG 002)
 Ultimate tensile strength of 70 psi (480 kPa) (ASTM D897)
 Design strength of 12psi (85 kPa)

Mock-Up Performance Testing: An Example
To further support consideration for acrylic foam structural glazing tape-based applications,
performance tests were conducted at an independent, accredited third-party test facility
(Winwall Technology Pte Ltd., Singapore) to evaluate acrylic foam structural glazing tapes
under stresses and environmental conditions that glass panels would typically experience
in a glazed curtain wall system.
Acrylic foam Structural silicone Acrylic foam

structural glazing sealant – IGU. structural glazing
tape – laminated tape – IGU.
glass.

Mock-Up Performance
Mock-Up Performance Testing Test Results Glass Panels in Second Test Sequence
Glass Panels in First Test Sequence
Acrylic Foam Structural One-Part Structural Acrylic Foam Structural One-Part Structural Acrylic Foam Structural
Test Sequence Test Method Glazing Tape Silicone Glazing Tape Silicone Glazing Tape
Laminated Glass IGU IGU 8 mm Tempered 8 mm Tempered
Air ASTM E283 No air leakage No air leakage No air leakage No air leakage No air leakage
Infiltration at 0.3 kPa (6.3 psf) from Panel from panel from panel from panel from panel
Water ASTM E331

No water leakage No water leakage No water leakage No water leakage No water leakage
Penetration at 0.7 kPa (15 psf)
20 cycles For each cycle, temperature is maintained For each cycle, temperature is maintained
Temperature
at -25°C to 70°C at -25°C (-13°F) for 15 minutes Subjected to 40 cycles at -25°C (-13°F) for 15 minutes
Cycling
(-13°F to 160°F) and 70°C (60°F) for 15 minutes and 70°C (60°F) for 15 minutes
Infiltration at 0.3 kPa (6.3 psf) from panel from panel from panel from panel from panel
Water ASTM E331

No water leakage No water leakage No water leakage No water leakage No water leakage
Penetration at 0.7 kPa (15 psf)
ASTM E330
Windload at -25°C, 32°C and 70°C ± 2.9 kPa (± 60 psf) ± 2.9 kPa (± 60 psf) ± 2.9 kPa (± 60 psf) ± 2.9 kPa (± 60 psf) ± 2.9 kPa (± 60 psf)
Structural (-13°F, 90°F, 160°F) 250 kph (155 mph) 250 kph (155 mph) 250 kph (155 mph) 250 kph (155 mph) 250 kph (155 mph)
hold for 1 minute
Infiltration at 0.3 kPa (6.3 psf) from panel from panel from panel from panel from panel
Windload ASTM E330

± 6 kPa (± 125 psf) ± 6 kPa (± 125 psf) ± 8 kPa (± 167 psf) ± 8 kPa (± 167 psf) ± 8 kPa (± 167 psf)
Structural at 32°C (90°F)
362 kph (225 mph) 362 kph (225 mph) 418 kph (260 mph) 418 kph (260 mph) 418 kph (260 mph)
Maximum hold 10 seconds
Windload Glass burst at

Maximum Pressure (+/-) > -8.4 kPa (-175 psf) > 10 kPa (210 psf) > 10 kPa (210 psf) > 10 kPa (210 psf)
Structural -8.4 kPa (-175 psf)
at 32°C (90°F) 426 kph (265 mph) 426 kph (265 mph) 426 kph (265 mph) 426 kph (265 mph)
Destructive 426 kph (265 mph)
Subjected to 2X test protocol

Performance Testing Conclusions
After numerous mock-up tests around the world over the last twenty years, it is possible to
conclude the following:
 An acrylic foam structural glazing tape-based system meets all the typical performance
requirements of a glazed curtain wall system.
 Acrylic foam structural glazing tape performance is equal to structural silicone sealant in
mock-up performance tests.
 Acrylic foam structural glazing tape provides acceptable wind load structural
performance at elevated (158°F) and cold (-13°F) temperatures (not a typical mock-up
test requirement).
 Acrylic foam structural glazing tape has demonstrated acceptable performance at three
to five times the design values in various mock-up tests.

Benefits to
Façade Applications

Aesthetics
Acrylic foam tapes ensure the glazing has

aesthetic appeal when viewed from a distance
or up close.
 Clean sight and edge lines are maintained in

both the interior and exterior.
 There is less space or distance between the

glass and the frame, and the thickness and
width of the tape remains consistent.
 There are no streaks and voids, and the color

remains consistent from one end to the other.
 In addition, there is no color mismatch as is

commonly seen with wet glazed components
(e.g. spacer/gasket and silicone).

Aesthetics: Improved Appearance
Traditional dry (gasket) and

structural silicone (wet) glazing
methods result in a ¼" (6mm) or
greater distance between the glass
and mullion, creating a very visible Typical ¼" space between 0.090" space between
glass and mullion glass and mullion
black band around the glass panel.
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape Traditional glazing. Acrylic foam tape glazing.
is only 0.090" (2.3mm) thick,
resulting in a much cleaner look
where it appears as if the glass is up
against the mullion.

Aesthetics: Improved Appearance
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape

has a uniform, consistent color
appearance versus the mismatched
color appearance often associated
with structural silicone and spacer
tape/gasket.
Gasket. Silicone. Acrylic foam tape.

has a clean, sharp edge line versus
the often streaky or wavy edge line
observed with liquid applied
silicone.
Silicone. Acrylic foam tape.

Aesthetics & Conformability
Acrylic foam tapes conform and bond to a variety of surfaces to simultaneously bond and
seal. This means there is more design flexibility allowing for a greater choice of materials
for visual impact, as seen in the images below.
Pettlaarspark.
Den Bosch, Netherlands 2006.
Fabricator: Sorba.
Aluminum panel bonding.

Simplified Installation & Reduced Fabrication Time
Acrylic foam tapes bond on contact with no curing, drying, fixturing, or liquid mess, which
translates to a simplified fabrication process saving time, labor, and materials.
The immediate handling strength and ease of use of acrylic foam tape results in a
significant reduction in fabrication time as compared to that for structural silicone bonding.
 There is no cure time, unlike silicone sealants which require hours or days to cure
before units can be moved.
 There are fewer process steps; no mixing, testing, or tooling required.
 It is faster to apply. Trained personnel can typically fabricate acrylic foam structural
glazing tape units faster than silicone glazed units.
 Fully cured adhesive allows for batch-processing of glazing frame components, frame
assemblies, or glass panels, resulting in increased throughput—even if all components
are not available.
 Finished units can be loaded on a truck immediately after fabrication for faster delivery
and installation.
 In-process, non-destructive testing is possible (able to test all taped panels without
deglazing).

Benefits of a Reduced Fabrication Time
Faster fabrication, delivery, and installation allows cost savings to be passed upstream to
the building owner, reducing the overall cost of a project. Faster project completion and
increased productivity allows for quicker building enclosure and occupancy, which
translates to improved ROI.
Moving curtain wall units immediately

after bonding Faster enclosure of building
Same day or next day

installation

Reduced Total Costs
Using acrylic foam structural glazing tape can reduce the total cost to manufacture a
building facade compared to one that utilizes conventional silicone bonding in the following
ways:
 Improved speed and productivity—reduced labor costs and increased profitability
 No in-process silicone testing
 No major two-component equipment investment and maintenance
 Reduced material handling—no staging while silicone cures, allowing fabrication in
small production area
 Less production space required due to the ability to move and ship assembled units
immediately after bonding
 Reduced waste—less than 5% material waste with acrylic foam structural glazing tape

Design Elements & Guidelines

Design Considerations: Adhesion
Adhesion is the molecular force of attraction between unlike materials, similar to a

magnetic force. The strength of attraction is determined by the surface energy of the
material. The higher the surface energy, the greater the molecular attraction; the lower the
surface energy, the weaker the attractive forces. Greater molecular attraction results in
increased interfacial contact between an adhesive and a substrate. In other words, on a
high surface energy material, the adhesive can more easily flow or “wet” the surface to
obtain a stronger bond.
A glass surface is generally considered to be a high energy surface. However, surface

coatings such as reflective coatings on the glass can change the surface energy of the
glass. Likewise, coatings or paint on metal frames will also change the surface energy of a
normally high energy surface like bare aluminum.
Thus, it is important to have the manufacturer review an acrylic foam structural glazing
tape project and conduct adhesion tests on project substrates to determine the appropriate
surface preparation method for each structural glazing substrate. This will help to ensure
that high bond strength of the acrylic foam tape is obtained to both bonding surfaces.

Design Considerations: Tape Width
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape must be the appropriate width to securely fasten the
glass panel and allow the dynamic load (wind, seismic, etc.) to be transferred to the
building structure. The appropriate tape width is determined based on wind load and/or
dead load calculations depending on the design of the structural glazing system. In
structural glazing systems without dead load support, the weight of the glass places a
constant load on the adhesive tape. A static load and dynamic load calculation must be
performed for these applications.
The minimum tape width for a structural glazing application is dependent on three factors:
1. The design strength of the bonding agent (acrylic foam structural glazing tape)
2. Design pressure (dynamic wind load) requirement for the building
3. Size of the glass panel
The design guidelines presented on the next slide are applicable only for acrylic foam
tapes designed and thoroughly tested for structural glazing and architectural panel bonding
applications. Always consult with the manufacturer of the acrylic foam tape for proper
design guidance.

Design Guidelines
Tensile strength for dynamic loads.
Ultimate dynamic strength. Dynamic load design strength
(glass and metal panels).
70 psi (480 kPa) ASTM D897. 12 psi (85 kPa).
Shear strength for static loads (dead loads).

Static load design strength. Tape required..
0.25 psi (1.75 kPa). 4 in2 tape per lb supported
(60 cm2 tape per kg).
Shear strain for differential movement.

Design shear strength. Tape thickness. Allowable differential
movement in shear.
300%. 0.090" (2.3 mm). 0.270" (7.0 mm).
Thermophysical properties.
AFT Tape. Conductivity (k).
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape (0.090", Grey). 0.1373 W/m•K.
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape (0.090", Black). 0.1378 W/m•K.

Curtain Wall Details
Acrylic foam structural glazing tapes are used in the following types of glazing systems:
 unitized curtain walls
(four-sided and two-sided)
 hybrid stick walls
(factory glazed cassette)
 ribbon walls
 window walls
 punched opening windows
 operable vents
 commercial doors
 skylights and canopies

Curtain Wall Details: System Requirements
An acrylic foam structural glazing system requires that the:

 Bond (or bite) area must be flat with no grooves or reglet for silicone spacer gaskets
 Bond (or bite) width must be properly sized to accommodate required width of acrylic
foam structural glazing tape
In addition, note:
 The “glazing pocket” depth is less than a typical silicone or dry gasket glazed system
due to 0.090"-thick acrylic foam structural glazing tape
 The acrylic foam structural glazing tape is not a primary weather seal, although its
closed-cell nature will allow it to act as a secondary weather seal

These drawings show the use of acrylic foam structural glazing tape in captured glazing
(left) and four-sided structural glazing (right).
Captured glazing. Structural glazing.
Acrylic foam structural glazing tape.

This glazing system drawing shows a unitized curtain wall stack joint mullion. Note, there
must be dead load support when using structural glazing with acrylic foam structural
glazing tapes.

This glazing system drawing shows an operable commercial window vent.

Architectural Panel Details
These images illustrate how acrylic foam tapes provide an invisible attachment solution for
interior and exterior wall panels. The images on the left are examples of stiffener bonding
with acrylic foam tape, while the ones on the right show architectural panel bonding with
acrylic foam tape.

Architectural Panel Details
These drawings show typical architectural panel stiffener bonding in applications, one with
structural silicone (left) and the other with acrylic foam tape (right). Again, structural silicone
bonding requires two bonding components and considerable cure time, while stiffener
bonding with acrylic foam tape requires only one bonding component and provides
immediate handling strength.
Typical structural silicone Typical acrylic foam architectural tape

bonded panel stiffener. bonded panel stiffener.
Structural
Spacer Acrylic
Silicone
tape. foam tape.
Sealant
Two bonding components. One bonding component.

Acrylic Foam Tape Bonding Process

Acrylic Foam Tape Bonding Process
Please take the time to view a short video which shows the process used in the fabrication
of a four-sided, unitized punched opening window system with acrylic foam structural
glazing tape.
If you've downloaded the course, click on image to start video (no audio).
If you are using a mobile device to take this course, you will be required to view the video on YouTube. Click here to access and click the “back”
button to return to the course.

Application Examples &

Reference Projects

Application Examples & Reference Projects
This section of the course

showcases architectural projects
from around the world where
acrylic foam tapes were used in
a variety of structural glazing
and architectural panel
applications.
Please remember the exam Bank Boston. Iguatemei Corporate.

password PROJECT. You will be Sao Paulo, Brazil. Porto Alegre, Brazil.
required to enter it in order to Exterior architectural Structural glazing with
proceed with the online examination.
panel bonding with acrylic foam tape.
acrylic foam tape.

Architectural Panels
Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Los Angeles, CA.
2003.
Architect: Frank O. Gehry
Curtain Wall: Permasteelisa.
Batten Strips
Stiffener Framework Acrylic foam tape was utilized in the bonding

of stiffeners, aluminum framework, and batten
strips to stainless steel panels.

Architectural Panels
Pettlaarspark.
Den Bosch, Netherlands.
2006.
Fabricator: Sorba.
The aluminum upper panels are bonded

with acrylic foam tape, and the rusted steel
panels are mechanically fixed.

Structural Glazing
Poort van Veghel 1 Building.

Veghel, Netherlands.
2006.
Glazier: Lealti.
This office building includes a unique, two-

sided structurally glazed stairwell.

Structural Glazing
Liberty Memorial Museum.

Kansas City, MO.
2006.
Architect: PGAV.
Contract Glazier: A2MG.
Structural glazing (interior, four-sided)

with acrylic foam tape enhances the
luminous white panels in the curtain
wall.

Structural Glazing
Robosoft Technologies.
New Udupi, India.
2007.
This office building utilizes four-sided structural

glazing and architectural panel bonding with acrylic
foam tapes.

Structural Glazing
Smarties Uithof, “Casa Confetti”.

Utrecht, Netherlands.
2007.
Architect: Marlies Rohmer.
This university residence project displays a

unique application of four-sided structural
glazing with acrylic foam tape combined
with architectural panels.

Structural Glazing
Athenee Plaza Tower.

Bangkok, Thailand.
2007.
Glazier: Alumeyer Limited.
Architect: A49.
Curtain Wall: Hydro.
Two, 42-story, mixed-use, residential and commercial

towers used silicone glazing and acrylic foam tape
glazing. The tower curtain wall utilizing acrylic foam
structural glazing tape was fabricated and installed in
one-third of the time required for the first tower using
the silicone glazing (seen in the back of the photo).

Structural Glazing
Contraloria General de Cuentas.

Guatemala City, Guatemala.
2006.
Contract Glazer: Aluminios Aldana.
Structural four-sided acrylic foam tape glazing.

Structural Glazing
Al Akaria Plaza. In this office building, the first floor is point-supported glazing,
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. and floors two through six are all structurally glazed with acrylic
2008. foam tape. This demonstrates the ability of acrylic foam tapes to
be successfully utilized in locations with high temperatures and
intense UV light exposure.

Structural Glazing
A. Zahner Company.
Kansas City, MO.
2010.
Architect: Crawford Architects.
Design, Engineering, and Fabrication: A. Zahner Company.
Zahner engineered and produced the exterior facade,

dubbed the “Cloud Wall.” The wall consists of a series of fins
that run along the side of a 10,000-square-foot addition.
Crawford Architects worked to develop this avant-garde
billowing curtain wall of glass and aluminum. The system
that Zahner developed to produce this interlocking facade is
part of a suite of panelized dry-set glass systems. Part of the
genius of this product is its quick installation process: each
glass panel is bonded with acrylic foam structural glazing
tape, allowing for a quick fit into the aluminum framework.
The new wing features a ceiling that is 16' higher than the
already high ceilings of the existing facility.

Structural Glazing
A. Zahner Company.
Kansas City, MO.
2010.
Architect: Crawford Architects.
Design, Engineering, and Fabrication:
A. Zahner Company.

Structural Glazing
TRF (Tribunal Regional Federal) - (Forma Incorporações).

Novo Hamburgo, RS, Brazil.
2010.
Curtain Wall: Reflexo Ind. Esquadrias.
An office building with structural four-sided

glazing with acrylic foam tape.

Structural Glazing
Edifício Lumen - (Krepischi Empreendimentos).

Campinas,SP, Brazil.
2010.
Structural four-sided acrylic

foam tape glazing

Structural Glazing
The M Resort.
Las Vegas, NV.
2008.
Contract Glazer: Heinaman Contract Glazing.
Glazing Profile: EN-Wall Unitized Curtain Wall.
Structural four-sided acrylic foam tape glazing.

Summary & Resources

Course Summary
 Acrylic foam tape is a two-sided, closed-cell acrylic foam, pressure-sensitive adhesive.

It is adhesive throughout its entire construction, including the foam core.
 Specific acrylic foam tapes meet the performance requirements for structural glazing
and architectural panel bonding applications. They have a proven performance history
in construction.
 The immediate handling strength and ease of use of acrylic foam tape results in overall
cost savings and a significant reduction in fabrication time compared to that of structural
silicone bonding.
 Acrylic foam tapes ensure the glazing is aesthetically pleasing, up close or from a
distance. Clean sight and edge lines are maintained in both the interior and exterior.
There is less space between the glass and the frame, there are no streaks or voids, and
the color remains consistent from one end to the other. Acrylic foam tapes allow exterior
and interior architectural panels to be installed without visible mechanical fasteners.
 It is important to have the manufacturer review all structural glazing projects and
provide support throughout the production process to achieve successful results.

Resources
 3M™ VHB™ Structural Glazing Tape Technical Guide,

http://solutions.3m.com/3MContentRetrievalAPI/BlobServlet?lmd=1257509053000&loca
le=en_IN&assetType=MMM_Image&assetId=1180621510961&blobAttribute=ImageFile
(accessed May 2014)
 Austin, Steve and Uwe Manert. “Acrylic Foam Structural Glazing Tapes.” 11DBMC
International Conference on Durability of Building Materials and Components, Istanbul,
May 2008. Ed. A. Nil Türkeri and Özkan Şengül.
http://www.irbnet.de/daten/iconda/CIB13027.pdf (accessed May 2014)
 Glass Association of North America (GANA Glazing Manual and GANA Sealant
Manual), www.glasswebsite.com (accessed May 2014)
 Salmon, Fay et al. “Evaluating the Performance and Durability of 3M VHB™ Acrylic
Foam Tapes for Structural Glazing Applications.” Pressure Sensitive Tape Council,
March 2010. http://www.pstc.org/files/public/TECH33Papers/2010SalmonFay.pdf
(accessed May 2014)

Conclusion
If you desire AIA/CES, state licensing or CE
credits for another organization, please click on
the button to commence your online
examination. A score of 80% or better will allow
you to print your Certificate of Completion; you
may also go to your AEC Daily Transcript to see
your completed courses and certificates.
©2014, 2017 3M. The material contained in this course was researched,
For additional knowledge and post-seminar assembled, and produced by 3M and remains its property. Questions or
concerns about the content of this course should be directed to the program
assistance, click on the Ask an Expert link
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If you have colleagues that might benefit from

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• About the Instructor • About the Sponsor • Ask an Expert

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 1 of 73 >

Acrylic Foam Tape for Structural Glazing & Architectural

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 2 of 73 >

AEC Daily Corporation has met the standards and requirements of

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 3 of 73 >

Purpose and Learning Objectives

Purpose: Acrylic foam tape is a two-sided, closed-cell acrylic foam, pressure-sensitive

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 4 of 73 >

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 5 of 73 >

How to Use This Online Learning Course

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 6 of 73 >

Introduction to Acrylic Foam Tapes 8

Physical & Performance Properties 18

Benefits to Facade Applications 33

Design Elements & Guidelines 41

Application Examples & Reference Projects 54

Summary & Resources 70

Click on title to view

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 7 of 73 >

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 8 of 73 >

Acrylate pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA)

Acrylic foam tape is a two-sided, closed-cell

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 9 of 73 >

Acrylic foam tape is a specific type of foam

The focus of this course is acrylic foam tape

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 10 of 73 >

Architectural Panel Applications

Acrylic foam tapes have been used since 1980

Acrylic foam architectural panel tapes are now

In many situations, architectural panel tapes

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 11 of 73 >

Structural Glazing Applications

In 1990, the use of high-bond, acrylic foam tapes

Today, acrylic foam structural glazing tapes are

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 12 of 73 >

Structural Glazing: Conventional Methods

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 13 of 73 >

Structural Glazing with Acrylic Foam Tape

Acrylic foam structural glazing tape is an

 Note, “spacer tape” is sometimes referred

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 14 of 73 >

Structural Glazing Type Comparison

Typical acrylic foam tape Typical structural silicone

Weather sealant Weather sealant

One bonding component Two bonding components

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 15 of 73 >

Structural Glazing with Acrylic Foam Tape

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 16 of 73 >

Structural Glazing with Acrylic Foam Tape

As architects, glazing and panel system manufacturers, fabricators, and contractors

The remainder of this course discusses

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 17 of 73 >

Physical & Performance

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 18 of 73 >

Conventional spacer tapes, sometimes referred to as structural glazing tapes, are

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 19 of 73 >

Structural glazing or Spacer tape / Silicone

Single bonding component Two bonding components

©2014, 2017 ∙ Table of Contents < Slide 20 of 73 >

Viscous materials are inherently tacky and flexible yet resist

Acrylic foam tape has an inherent ability to absorb energy

The viscoelastic properties of acrylic foam tape enable it to