German technical background VOK-345 leveling agent Used in water-based coatings to reduce surface tension replaces BYK-345

German technical background  VOK® -SL345 leveling agent

VOK®-SL 345 is used in water-based coatings, printing inks and varnishes, silicone surfactants with a strong reduction in surface tension and a significant increase in substrate wettability. Does not increase surface slip. Solvent-free form of VOK®-346.

Product information 

Chemical composition 

Polyether-modified siloxanes. 

Typical physicochemical data 

The data presented on this data page is typical and not a product specification. 

Density (20 °C): 1.04 g/ml 

Active Ingredients: 100% 

In particular, in the solvent-free form of VOK®-SL 346, in order to avoid turbidity, a small amount of co-solvent (approximately 5% of the total solvent) is required in the formulation using VOK®-SL 345. 

The effectiveness of silicone surfactants is reduced in formulations with high co-solvent content, and we recommend VOK®-SL 333 for this type of formulation. 

Application areas 

Coatings and printing inks 

Features and benefits 

The additive improves leveling and substrate wettability by strongly reducing surface tension. It has no or slight foam stabilizing effect and does not reduce recoating. The additive does not increase surface slip. For high surface slip, VOK®-SL 333 is recommended. 

Recommended Use 

The additive is recommended for all water-based coatings, printing inks and varnishes with the addition of a small amount of organic co-solvents.

Recommended dosage 

0.05-0.5 % additive dosage (purchased form) is based on total formulation. 

The above recommended dosage is for reference, and the appropriate dosage needs to be determined through a series of tests. 

Addition method and processing guidance 

The additive can be added at any stage of production and we recommend adding it at the final production stage of the coating.