Patent ID: 8707534

Claim:
A method for improving joint strength comprising the steps of: positioning a first member having a first connection region with an internal surface and an external surface; positioning a second member having a second connection region with an internal surface and an external surface adjacent to the first member; forming a joint by applying a sealant material to the internal surface of either the first member or the second member and joining the first member and the second member together so that the first connection region and the second connection region include the sealant material therebetween; and applying a force to the external surfaces of the first member and the second member so that one or more rigid components contact the internal surface of the first member and second member; wherein the sealant material comprises a matrix material having the one or more rigid components that are resistant to deformation; and wherein the one or more rigid components apply an internal tension force acting opposite of the force to the exterior surface of both the first member and the second member forming a mechanical lock thereby reducing slippage and generally maintaining the joint in position.