A release agent (also mold release agent, release coating, or mold release coating) is a chemical used to prevent other materials from bonding to surfaces. Release agents aid in processes involving mold release, die-cast release, plastic release, adhesive release, and tire and web release.[1] Release agents are one of many additives used in the production of plastics.[2]
Release agents provide a barrier between a molding surface and the substrate, facilitating separation of the cured part from the mold. Without such a barrier, the substrate would become fused to the mold surface, resulting in difficult clean-up and dramatic loss in production efficiency. Even when a release agent is used, factors such as irregular applications or improper release agent choice may have a dramatic effect on the quality and consistency of the finished product. Many kinds of release agents are used. They are waxes, fatty ester, silicones, and metallic soaps.[1]
- ^ a b Lammerting, Helmut (2000). "Release Agents". Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. Weinheim: Wiley-VCH. doi:10.1002/14356007.a23_067. ISBN 3527306730.
- ^ Stevens, Malcolm P. (1993). "Polymer Additives: III. Surface Property and Processing Modifiers". Journal of Chemical Education. 70 (9): 713. Bibcode:1993JChEd..70..713S. doi:10.1021/ed070p713.