Releasing agents are a valuable part of any construction project, ensuring that concrete does not stick to formwork or moulds; the CHRYSO® Dem range takes this technology another step forward with a brand to suit every application.

According to Hannes Engelbrecht, general manager:inland at CHRYSO Southern Africa, getting the best results requires choosing the appropriate release agent, as there are specific formulations for all options including timber formwork, manmade formwork and decorative concrete, as well as wet or dry precast.

“It is false economy to just use the cheapest releasing agent available,” says Engelbrecht, “as the cost is relatively low when compared to the value of the formwork or mould. The CHRYSO® Dem range ensures easy, clean release of the formwork or mould from the concrete, without damaging either.”

The products reduce the likelihood of any imperfections and surface damage to the concrete, such as blow holes, creating more durable and attractive concrete surfaces.

“It is important to remember that the quality of the CHRYSO® Dem range ensures there is no adverse effect on the adhesion of subsequent finishes and coatings,” he says. “This allows plaster, paint or other coatings to be applied to the concrete with no associated problems; the release agents are also water repellent, so are not affected by rain.”

These products do not have any negative effect on the hydration of concrete as it cures, and they are inoffensive to apply as they have very little odour.

The range even includes a vegetable-based, environmentally friendly release agent – CHRYSO® Dem Bio 10 – which is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it safe to use in confined applications such as mining and tunneling, or any other poorly ventilated area.

Reducing blow holes is the specialty of CHRYSO® Dem Elio LSM, with its low viscosity oil lowering the surface tension against the sides of mould and allowing air bubbles to escape. CHRYSO® Dem Elio SP is designed for dry precast spun pipe production with the added benefit of the release of dry concretes that have been exposed to the high temperatures of steam curing. CHRYSO® Dem Oleo FW is a mineral-based release agent suitable for all types of formwork on site.

“The CHRYSO® Dem range is a fundamental change for an industry that is accustomed to a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to release agents,” says Engelbrecht. “It is also raising the bar among users, who will now start to expect better results.”