Evonik Introduces ZEOFREE 600 Additive

To combat “snail trails” –  highly visible vertical streaks spoiling the appearance of a paint job – the Coating Additives business line of Evonik launched the ZEOFREE 600 additive.

These “snail trails” typically emerge after the first bout of rain hits the building wall. The rain washes water-soluble components, such as additives or emulsifiers, out of the paint. These washed-out materials run down the wall, leaving behind unsightly streaks.

When added to coatings during or post-formulation, ZEOFREE 600 stops snail trails from arising in the first place, Evonik said.

The powder additive consists of calcium silicate with a particularly porous structure. The fine particles of ZEOFREE 600 work like a sponge – they absorb and retain the water-soluble components, per Evonik.

The new additive is patent protected and is currently unique on the market. Its high oil absorption has been proven in tests according to the industry standard ASTM D 7190-10, as well as in-house rain-simulation tests. A further benefit is that the new additive is non-hazardous and meets the criteria for the EU Ecolabel 2014/312/EU.

ZEOFREE 600 works for all non-gloss paints, from white to dark shades. The recommended addition level ranges from one to five percent depending on the formulation.