Mineral oils used as release agents were, and unfortunately sometimes still are, low-grade products with some lubricating oils containing PCB’s.

Although the quality of the oils has improved over time, application of the agents is still not without health risk. A large number of mineral oil based release agents may contain relatively large amounts of solvents. In the majority of the cases they are atomised, which results in the formation of oil droplets in the air and evaporation of the solvents in them. Furthermore, the release agents may contain additives that may result in allergies. Thus, care should be taken in handling and working with MRAs.

When looking at possible adverse health-effects, not only the product should be taken into account but also the time workers are exposed to the release agent. In prefabricated concrete production with a short production cycle (direct demoulding) the release agent is applied every few minutes. Additionally, the release agent used will have low viscosity, which is usually achieved by using organic compounds that evaporate easily. In this situation, exposure of workers to the release agent will be much higher, and adverse health effects cannot be excluded. Mineral oil based release agents may bring about the following health and safety hazards: inhalation of organic compounds (VOCs), inhalation of oil mist, skin diseases resulting from skin contact, accidental ingestion, odour nuisance and fire risk.

The personal Health and Safety benefits to the people applying a VERA based product rather than a mineral oil are many and include:
• a virtually odourless product compared to the oily smell of the traditional mineral oil
• removal of oil droplets from the working environment and therefore avoiding potential carcinogens in the atmosphere
• avoidance of possible skin irritations and dermatitis
• cleaner work clothes

A table comparing the performance and qualities of different types of MRAs is shown by clicking on this link

In summary, all these benefits contribute to a more co-operative and productive manufacturing team.
Redrock is working towards providing effective eco-friendly mould release agents that offer the concrete producer a safer and cleaner place to work.