Expanform* Concentrate 4.5 LTR | FOSPAK NASIR & SONS

Expanform* Concentrate is a chemical mould release agent manufactured by Expanchem Fospak. It is supplied as a concentrated blend of mineral oils and specially selected additives that must be thoroughly pre-blended with diesel before site application. Once applied, the blended solution reacts chemically at the mould surface to deliver a releasing action far superior to conventional category 1 to 4 oil-based release agents.

By minimizing the entrapment of air bubbles at the mould face, Expanform* significantly reduces surface blemishes and concrete defects, drastically lowering subsequent remedial repair costs.

Primary Uses

• Mould and Formwork Stripping: Engineered for the quick, clean, and effortless stripping of formwork and moulds.

• High-Aesthetic Concrete: Specifically designed to produce high-quality, fair-faced, and stain-free concrete, even when utilizing white cement.

• Versatile Material Compatibility: Fully suitable for use on virtually all formwork types, including suitably sealed timber, polyurethane-coated surfaces, steel, GRP, and other resinous moulds.

Key Features & Advantages

• Surface Blemish & Stain Prevention: Minimizes surface defects and staining to promote a premium concrete finish.

• Formwork Protection: Ensures an easy release, which minimizes the physical damage inflicted on formwork during stripping. This extends the overall usable life of the moulds.

• Corrosion Inhibition: Actively reduces and inhibits rust and corrosion on steel moulds.

• Increased Operational Efficiency: Significantly reduces the time, effort, and cleaning required to prepare formwork for its next use.

• Industry Compliance: Complies fully with Category 5: Chemical release agent standards (Concrete Society: Notes on formwork release agents and coatings, April 1981).

Technical Specifications

Mixing & Application Guidelines

1. Blending Ratio

Before application, Expanform* Concentrate must be mixed thoroughly with diesel at the following ratio:

4.5 liters of Expanform* Concentrate to 200 liters of Diesel.

2. Surface Preparation

• All new or used moulds must be completely cleaned of rust, concrete, oil, and other surface deposits prior to application.

• Inadequate cleaning can prevent proper release and cause surface blemishes. The use of a proprietary chemical degreaser or acid cleaning is recommended.

3. Application Method

• Application Methods: The blended solution can be applied using a brush, sponge, or conventional spray (spray application is highly recommended where suitable).

• Absorbent vs. Non-Absorbent Surfaces: Non-absorbent surfaces require only a single application. For regularly re-used timber forms, a polyurethane sealer should be applied first to protect the timber and prevent excess absorption of the release agent. New, unsealed timber surfaces should be re-coated if there is a delay in use and the agent is absorbed.

• Coverage Rate: Typical coverage rates range from $20\text{ to }60\text{ m}^2/\text{liter}$ ($0.015\text{ to }0.050\text{ liters/m}^2$) of the blended solution, depending on surface porosity.

Important Note on Over-Application: Always aim for the thinnest practical coating. Avoid over-application and pooling in the corners of forms, as excessive application is uneconomic and can lead to surface dusting or surface retardation.

4. Temperature Limitations

• For application temperatures exceeding $60^{\circ}\text{C}$, please consult the Expanchem Fospak Technical Department.