Evonik Introduces New Biosurfactants for Use in Coatings and Inks

Evonik Coating Additives has introduced groundbreaking biosurfactants tailored for coatings and ink formulations, revolutionizing the industry with both performance and sustainability. The new products, TEGO Wet 570 Terra and TEGO Wet 580 Terra, represent a significant advance in the paints, coatings, and inks sector by offering high performance with a remarkable sustainability profile.

These biosurfactants are created through a unique fermentation process involving microorganisms, distinguishing them from traditional fossil-based surfactants by being entirely derived from natural sources. They are characterized by extremely low volatile organic compound (VOC) levels and are fully biodegradable, with minimal impact on aquatic life. TEGO Wet 570 Terra and TEGO Wet 580 Terra are specifically formulated for waterborne coatings and inks, providing a greener alternative for these applications.

Elias Lacerda, Head of Coating Additives at Evonik, emphasized the dual benefits of these products: “With TEGO Wet 570 Terra and TEGO Wet 580 Terra, we offer our customers innovative, high-performance solutions that also contribute to the green transformation of the paint and coatings industry.” The biosurfactants enhance the wetting of pigments and fillers, which leads to shorter grinding times and reduced energy consumption, thereby making production processes more energy-efficient.

Katina Kiep, Head of Decorative Coatings at Evonik Coating Additives, noted the versatility and compliance of these products: “TEGO Wet 570 Terra and TEGO Wet 580 Terra are perfectly suited for use in waterborne decorative paints, as well as for industrial and transportation coatings and inks. Their exceptional properties and adherence to stringent EU Ecolabel standards make them a perfect choice for formulating sustainable coatings.”

The majority of these biosurfactants are manufactured in Slovakia. Evonik is at the forefront of industrial-scale biosurfactant development, employing an IP-protected fermentation process to produce rhamnolipids from renewable corn feedstock. This biotechnological method yields high-performance, non-toxic, and biodegradable surfactants.

Tim-Frederic Sloot, Head of Sustainability at Evonik Coating Additives, highlighted the broader impact of these innovations: “These new products not only showcase our strong innovation capabilities but also underscore our commitment to advancing environmentally friendly solutions and setting new standards in the coatings and inks industry.”

Evonik is a global leader in specialty chemicals, with operations spanning more than 100 countries. In 2023, the company achieved sales of €15.3 billion and an operating profit (adjusted EBITDA) of €1.66 billion. Evonik extends its expertise beyond traditional chemistry, developing innovative, profitable, and sustainable solutions for its clients. With a dedicated team of around 32,000 employees, the company is united in its mission to drive progress and excellence.