SOK - Release agents for highest exposed concrete requirements
Exposed concrete – it all depends on the correct release agent
Exposed concrete is a popular building material because it is very flexible. The design possibilities of concrete are virtually boundless. However, alongside its structural and economic advantages, exposed concrete is very often used for aesthetic reasons. Modern architecture places the highest demands on the construction industry in this regard. Where the surfaces of concrete components remain visible, there are special requirements regarding their appearance.
Factors that influence the release effect
The concrete release agent to be used with exposed concrete has one of the most important roles, given that an incorrect choice could easily lead to an unusable result. The release effect acting between the formwork shell and the concrete is also determined by a variety of other influencing factors:
- Type/condition of the formwork shell
- Weather conditions (e.g. temperature, humidity, dust)
- Concrete formulation, including cement type and additives/aggregates
Consequences of an incorrect choice of release agent
The wrong choice of release agent or its incorrect application (e.g. overdosage) often leads to problems that can be particularly irksome, especially for exposed concrete:
- Concrete residues on the formwork shell
- Discolouration/staining of the concrete surface
- Occurrence of pores and cavities
- Corrosion damage to the formwork
SOK 128 – The all-round release agent for exposed concrete
The top release agent, which can be used for most exposed concrete applications, is SOK 128. Because it is suitable for all absorbent and non-absorbent formwork types and can be used with almost any type of concrete, it really is a true all-rounder. SOK 128 stands out primarily on account of its ease of use. Usage errors such as overdosage do not result in any discolouration at all.
- Simple to use and apply
- Suitable for all types of formwork (absorbent and non-absorbent)
- Largely prevents pore formation
- Very economical compared to alternative release agents
- Provides clean and uniform surfaces
- Does not impair the adhesion of plaster, adhesives or paint
- Very well suited to all concrete types (including SCC, ECC, UHPC, spun concrete and pigmented concrete)
Concrete release agent solutions for EVERY requirement
One exposed concrete is not the same as another. The desired result is not just determined by the targeted class of exposed concrete. The boundary conditions that apply in each case also play a crucial role (primarily the concrete formulation and external influences). This means that SOK 128 can also come up against its limits in extreme situations. The following individual requirements may play a role here:
- Higher corrosion protection (e.g. because of delicate formwork)
- Higher release effect (e.g. because of a special concrete formulation)
- Environmental regulations
In cases such as these, FUCHS proves itself to be a reliable partner with the appropriate concrete release agent for EVERY requirement in its SOK portfolio. Thus we are able to respond very flexibly to your individual requirements and the desired result.
Don't undertake your exposed concrete application without the help of a release agent specialist. Your personal consultant from FUCHS will be happy to advise and assist you with the selection of a suitable release agent.
