CHRYSO Southern Africa’s commitment to provide quality solutions for the built environment, is evident in the CHRYSO® DEM range of application driven release agents.

Understanding the crucial role formwork plays in the production of quality concrete and similarly moulds in the manufacture of precast elements, the CHRYSO® DEM range has introduced much needed flexibility to the industry. Previously, it had been a case of one-size-fits-all when it came to release agents.

Discerning clients, developers, manufacturers and specifiers are increasingly particular about the aesthetics of concrete finishes. To achieve the desired texture and colour finish on the concrete’s surface it is imperative that formwork surfaces are adequately prepared in terms of cleanliness and that an optimal release agent is selected for the application.

As different form-face materials have varying longevity, absorbency and texture characteristics, specialised release agents are required to realise the full aesthetic potential of the formwork, eliminating wastage of time and materials.  

Not only will the optimal release agent reduce the likelihood of imperfections and surface defects (particularly blow holes) in the concrete, when applied correctly it will also ensure no staining or deviation from the specified colour finish.

The top quality release agents in the CHRYSO® DEM range provide greater coverage, are easy to use and add consistent quality, which is important on construction sites as well as in precast plants.

CHRYSO®Dem Bio 10 is a vegetable-based, bio-degradable and non-toxic release agent, which will not pollute the environment. It has a low odour and is therefore safe to use in confined spaces such as mining, tunneling and any poorly ventilated areas. It is suitable for use with all types of formwork: metal, wood, plastic, polystyrene and fibreglass.

Another product in the range is Elio VP, a hydrocarbon oil-based agent, which is suitable when producing concrete pipes with roller compacted pipe technology. The Elio VP significantly reduces surface defects. The low viscosity oil creates less surface tension against the sides of the pipe steel moulds which results in less outer concrete surface damage when demoulding.

CHRYSO® Dem Oleo WB is a wax-based delayed-release agent for wooden formwork used on conventional jobsites and for wooden pallets for cement-based brick manufacturing. This release agent temporarily protects and extends the life of veneer laminated shutter boards, decreasing the frequency of re-lamination. This release agent can also be used to coat pallets for protection, when stacking cement-based bricks on them.

CHRYSO® Dem Oleo FW is a hydrocarbon based, which is suitable for use with all types of formwork. It is however not suitable for precast applications. It ensures ease of formwork release and also temporarily protects and extends the life of metallic formwork from corrosion.

CHRYSO® DEM Oleo SM is a mineral-based delayed-release agent, ideal for use with metallic or wooden formwork for wet precast. It does not stain or affect the colour of the concrete when applied correctly. It is the perfect solution when white cement is used for specialised architectural finishes. CHRYSO® Dem Oleo SM can handle the high temperatures of steam curing and provides rust prevention. This release agent is a hydrocarbon oil-based delayed release agent, used for steam cured precast elements cast in steel formwork.

CHRYSO® Dem Oleo RT is a hydrocarbon oil-based, delayed-release agent for the roof tile industry, developed specifically for use with aluminum roof tile pallets.

This ready to use range of release agents reduces the likelihood of errors, which may occur in other release agents, where mixing of various components is required.

When applied correctly and for the specific purpose, the CHRYSO® Dem range does not modify cement hydration and as it is water repellent, it is not affected by rain.

These products are manufactured locally by CHRYSO Southern Africa at its production plant based in Jet Park, Johannesburg and comply with regulations for the transport and disposal of hazardous materials.

While generally regarded as a minor item on the bill of quantities, the specification and selection of an appropriate release agent and application method may prove to be critical to the success of the project, affecting both the quality and colour of the surface finish. A release agent is a low-cost item, yet vital in relation to the cost of formwork and moulds. It thus makes sense to use the appropriate release agent for the correct application and formwork substrate, in order to protect and extend the life of the formwork or mould, ultimately resulting in financial benefits.

As each release agent contributes differently to the off-form finish, care in the selection of the release agent is critical.

CHRYSO Southern Africa’s sales and technical teams are on hand to discuss the correct CHRYSO® DEM solution for any application, condition or aesthetic specification.