The characteristic milky appearance of water-based emulsion release agents made from waxes and oils.

The primary benefit is evident at the workstation. By replacing the solvent carrier with water, the formulation improves workshop conditions:

• Reduced exposure to solvent vapors during spraying – a key factor for the health of production line operators.
• Fewer odors in the workshop, which improves working conditions on high-speed production lines.
• Simplified storage: fewer flammable products, resulting in reduced ATEX and insurance requirements.
• Easier compliance with REACH requirements and contractors’ HSE policies.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are at the heart of industrial emission reduction plans. Water-based industrial chemistry provides a measurable solution. A practical example is Keck Chimie’s 8670/31 release agent, a wax- and oil-based emulsion containing approximately 79.8% water and only 10% solvents, compared with the much higher solvent content of conventional release agents. Lower VOC emissions also mean lower air treatment costs and a clearly documented path toward environmental transition.
This advantage is all the more traceable given that these formulations are developed and manufactured in Alsace, in Ingwiller, at a facility certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.

For many years, water-based formulations had the reputation of delivering lower performance. Modern formulations have disproved this assumption, provided the recommended application parameters are followed. The 1801/83 release agent for PU soles illustrates the precision achieved, in line with the water-based release of polyurethane soles already proven at Keck Chimie.
0.3 mm nozzle, air pressure of 3 to 4 bar, material pressure of 0.2 bar, molds at approximately 50 °C, spray distance of 20 to 30 cm.
The result is a uniform release film, a perfectly dry surface to the touch – the well-known “dry grip” effect – and a consistent matte finish with no surface defects or bonding issues.

A dual-density PU sole (comfort layer and outsole) demolded cleanly, with no tearing or surface defects.

Long reserved for single-density applications, the water-based system is now approved for dual-density polyurethane processes and soles combining a comfort layer and a wear layer, thanks to 1702/44.

1. Audit the existing process: condition of the molds — cleaning fouled molds is often an essential prerequisite —, temperatures, spray system, and production rates.
2. Carry out trials under actual production conditions with the manufacturer’s technical support.
3. Adjust the application parameters: dilution, nozzle diameter, air pressure, and material pressure.
4. Validate performance during production through quality control before full-scale implementation.

Would you like to evaluate a water-based release agent on your single- or dual-density molds? Contact us to test our water-based release agents under real industrial production conditions.