Germany's Evonik raises purity standards for siloxane-based additives

Through continuous process optimization and the use of high-quality raw materials, Evonik ensures the highest purity of its siloxane-based coating and ink additives – verified through extensive analytical testing. As a result, more than 95 % of the active siloxane-based Coating Additives portfolio contains less than 0.1 % of SVHC (Substances of Very High Concern), maintaining suitability for use in paints and inks with Ecolabel certification.

In light of recent regulatory developments in the European Union (EU), certain low–molecular-weight siloxanes have been classified as SVHCs because they meet the REACH criteria for persistence and bioaccumulation. In addition, the new EU hazard classes – PBT (persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic) and vPvB (very persistent and very bioaccumulative) – require products to be classified and labeled when these substances are present at concentrations of 0.1% or higher.

These linear and cyclic siloxanes are common impurities in most siloxanes. However, their concentration can be significantly reduced through careful raw material selection and optimized manufacturing processes.

Customer-focused and future-ready

Evonik’s proactive approach ensures the absence - or low levels - of these moieties in more than 95 % of Evonik’s active siloxane additive portfolio. It enables customers to continue using siloxane-based TEGO grades without reformulation or switching to high-cost “purified” alternatives. This ensures uninterrupted compliance, consistent performance, and reliable supply.

“Our customers can rely on Evonik Coating Additives to anticipate regulatory changes and deliver solutions that combine compliance with performance,” says Kristina Meier, Global Head of Product Line Silicone & Acetylenics at Evonik Coating Additives. “This achievement underscores our commitment to sustainability, regulatory excellence, and making life easier for our customers and partners.”

Note: The headline, insights, and image of this press release may have been refined by the ALCHEMPro staff; the rest of the content remains unchanged.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (MS)