Silicone cure times?

[sparkyr99]

How long should you let silicone cure when using as an adhesive, and gap filler? I'm still re-constucting my 40 gallon vivarium. I decided to use ridgid polystyrene foam to form the landmass in my tank and to cut down on the weight. I cut and formed the foam to the shape i wanted. and have "glued" it into the tank with silicone. I've also sealed around the junction where the foam meets the glass. I placed a glass divider for the water and sealed it to the foam as well. After sufficient cure time i plan on coating the rest of the foam with silicone for waterproofing before start decorating. I guess i just need some opinions on how long to wait before the final waterproofing.

Thanks, Steve

 

[Jennewt]

Hard to say. When you have silicone between two hard surfaces, it can take a long time to cure. The best guide is when the vinegar smell goes away.

 

[SludgeMunkey]

Just to add to Jen's post- an ambient temperature of 70F and a relative humidity of 60% will speed the process. Higher humidity is key as the catalyst for the reaction is atmospheric water.