Evonik Coating Additives has expanded its portfolio of high-performance defoamers with the launch of TEGO® Foamex 8420, a siloxane-based concentrate designed to tackle the most demanding defoaming challenges in waterborne formulations. This innovative product offers exceptional defoaming power, making it ideal for use in waterborne overprint varnishes and printing inks.

Foaming issues during the production of printing inks and overprint varnishes can disrupt manufacturing processes and hinder ink or coating transfer, compromising print quality. Certain waterborne inks and varnishes, especially overprint varnishes, contain high concentrations of foam-stabilizing surfactants like DOSS (diisooctyl sulfosuccinate), which intensify defoaming difficulties. Additionally, pigment grinds and inks with foam-stabilizing raw materials pose significant challenges.

To address these complex issues, TEGO® Foamex 8420 has been specifically designed to deliver maximum defoaming performance in challenging waterborne systems. The new solution is formulated to break down foam effectively, ensuring a smoother manufacturing process and improved final product quality. By efficiently reducing foam, TEGO® Foamex 8420 helps improve the transfer of coatings and inks, resulting in consistent and reliable print quality even in demanding conditions.

The printing industry has faced persistent challenges with defoaming in waterborne formulations due to the increasing use of surfactants that stabilize foam. Overprint varnishes, in particular, present unique difficulties as they frequently contain a combination of foam-stabilizing surfactants and other raw materials that make foam control complex. The presence of pigments and ink carriers further exacerbates foam-related issues. In response, Evonik's TEGO® Foamex 8420 stands out as a powerful and reliable solution designed to mitigate these concerns effectively.

“Over the past several years, we've developed a comprehensive range of high-performance defoamers for the ink industry,” said Susanne Struck, Global Head of Market Segment Inks at Evonik Coating Additives. “These TEGO® Foamex products provide tailored compatibility, excellent performance, and strong food contact compliance in both siloxane-based and siloxane-free options. TEGO® Foamex 8420 is a valuable addition to this portfolio.”

With TEGO® Foamex 8420, Evonik reinforces its position as a key partner for ink and coating manufacturers seeking efficient and effective defoaming solutions. This latest addition to Evonik's product line enhances its comprehensive portfolio, which also includes a broad range of co-binders for inks and an extensive selection of additives for waterborne, radiation-curable, and solvent-borne printing inks and inkjet inks. By offering solutions that cater to various ink formulations and manufacturing challenges, Evonik continues to support its customers in achieving improved performance, quality, and efficiency across their production processes.