: > wrap and put the hatch in place. The silicone hadn't even started to
: firm
: > up this morning. It appears that without much exposure to the air it
: stays
: > wet. Any ideas? It has been in a 65 degree environment. It is supposed
: to
: > firm up overnight and be ready for exposure to water in 24 hours.

: Looking up several data sheets for diff silicones for full cure - they
: require 3-5 days @ 73deg F AND 50% R.H. (for 1/4in)

: Most say that 'cures when exposed to moisture present in air'. Don't know if
: water only would provide cure, but would assume some part(continuous) of
: the edge must not be covered up so moisture in air can contact. Logical to
: me that if have a 3/4in wide gasket w/ only about 1/16in showing, it might
: take longer that say 1/2in wide by 1/4in thick.

: -mick

Talked to a silicone rep the yesterday:

The molecular moisture(actually 0H ions) in the air catalyzes the polymerization reaction ( of silicone oils ).

But the bottom line is that the curing process can be stopped only if no air is present like in a vaccuum. Even if the 'gasket' is say 3/4in wide and only 1/16in thick or less and closed on one side by say wax, the process is ONLY slowed. It will still cure.

-mick