When you pen the AI sols you'll see that the "discs" whch contain the LEDs are screwed onto the heatsink. I would guess there is some thermal paste under that or the LEDs but doubt it does anything to hold on the LEDs. I guess i COULD see the optics keeping the LEDs on as the optics sit right on the LEDs and then white cover sits over those, but hard to tell if they are actually doing anything. My vote would be not really.
As far as breaking a seal, no. There wasn't anything that basically showed the case was opened. Also, given they are ok with people changing out optics, i would guess there isn't much they could say if you opened up the unit. The only tool needed was a hex wrench.
I think the corals are doing better but hard to tell as i didn't have many for too long prior. I will say that my Aussie duncan literally had like 5 heads show up within a week. Coincidence? maybe. regardless i'm pretty happy with the power savings, reduction in heat, and shimmer effect. not to mention the ability adjust the light how i want.