MUNICH, Germany—In an effort to make its sealants that are used in weathering, sanitary and construction applications more environmentally friendly, Wacker Chemie A.G. has introduced a line of silicone material made from renewable raw materials.
Known as the Elastosil eco-brand, the global chemicals company said it is able to trace the raw materials used in its silicones—namely silicon and a bio-based methanol derived from plants and fossil-based material—from the upstream processes to the actual sealant products.
The bio-methanol comes from certified sustainable sources that undergo regular audits, Wacker said.
"Wacker offers a comprehensive package and the chance to be a first-mover, supplying a sustainable silicone sealant in the market," said Axel Schmidt, head of the company's sealants and adhesives business.
Wacker initially has debuted an acetic and alkoxy line. While Wacker said acetoxy sealants have a long shelf life and can be used for professional construction applications, alkoxy grades exhibit excellent adhesion and elongation in glazing and window applications.
Both are available as versions for professional sanitary applications. The alkoxy line also includes a chalk-filled sealant that has a matte appearance and can be used in weatherseal applications.
"The performance of the standard and fossil-free grades is completely identical," Schmidt said. "We deliberately selected our premium quality sealants to show our customers that we accept no compromise on quality."
Silicone sealants are made from a silicone poylmer, plasticizers, fillers and additives. If methanol from plant- and fossil-based material is used, the portion of raw materials derived from biomass can be used for specific products.
The company said it already uses this method to make vinyl acetate ethylene binders used in the textile and consumer goods industries.
Distributors can market the new silicone products under their own brand, with reference to Wacker's trademarked Elastosil, Wacker said.
For more information, visit www.wacker.com/new-elastosil-eco.
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