Company News

Elkay Silicones participated in PAINTINDIA 2018

At PAINTINDIA 2018 in Mumbai, Elkay presented its entire range of silicone products and solutions for paint & coating applications and construction market. Silicone products are widely used in coating industries for protection and also for styling the applications.

Foam control, water repellent, wetting, leveling and slip are some important applications. Silicone polymers are used to ease application of paints.

Customers shown interest for wetting & leveling agent, dispersing agent, co-binders and defoaming agents as additives. In coating applications, there has been talked about overcoats, anti-stain overcoats, water resisting overcoats and release overcoats products. Elkay Chemicals Pvt Ltd is manufacturing various silicone products for these applications and support Make in India program.

The Elkay team spent 3 exciting days, in conversation with Indian as well as global visitors. Elkay silicones stall was visited by more than 250 visitors – including our esteemed customers, fortune 500 customers, vendors and new customers.

Elkay Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. expanded its operations by opening a new manufacturing facility at Lote, Ratnagiri on 25 November 2017. The state-of- the-art facility is equipped with reactors, mixers, laboratory and modern precision equipment for high quality silicone fluids and emulsion manufacturing. With a team of highly skilled and experienced employees, this facility will serve the requirements of the agriculture, construction, pharmaceuticals, textiles, petrochemicals, chemical process, personal care and other various sectors in India and abroad. This expansion will serve to triple the existing capacity of certain product lines.

The facility was inaugurated by Shri Shripad Naik, Union Minister of State (AYUSH), Government of India. He said that the plant is an example of Make in India concept, the vision of Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, and this plant will earn foreign exchange by exporting these performance products. Indian industry and society will become stronger with innovations in performance chemicals. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ravindra Kulkarni (Managing Director) spoke about the silicones technology, applications and future of the company. The main focus of the company is innovation, quality, environment protection and employees’ safety. Inaugurating the facility, Mr. A K Lokapur, (Partner) said the investment represented the group’s long-term commitment to its customers, employees and business associates.

Vinay Kumar Singh
Chief Research Officer,
Paramount Cosmetics India,
Bangalore, Karnataka
vinay@parammount.com

Silicones used in personal care applications are of diversified types, including cyclic, linear,or organo-functional polydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS), as well as silicone elastomer
dispersions and resins. This wide range of molecules provides benefits that impact the
performance of almost every type of beauty product, conferring attributes such as good
spreading, film forming, wash-off resistance, skin feel, volatility and permeability.

I as a Chemist have been benefitted by use of Silicones many a times. In fact it has helped me formulate products that were really a challenge. No doubt, I advocate that Silicone Chemistry is future of Cosmetics.

Now as there have been few concerns particularly environmental, we; Chemists have to find solution to it to use Silicone without any fear or risk.

First introduced to beauty products in the 1950s, silicones are derived from a natural product called silica (basic sand), but undergo extensive chemical processing before being added to our beauty products.

The term silicone represents a large family of polymers that range from low viscosity fluids, to viscous gums, to cross-linked elastomers and hard resins. Their unique chemical and physical properties have made silicones important ingredients. It is best known for their aesthetic properties, these versatile materials improve the performance of many cosmetics, sunscreens and skin treatment products. They help deliver pigments and other particles to the skin, enhance protection by sunscreens and improve the stability of antiaging ingredients.

The first applications involved basic silicone fluids (INCI: Dimethicone). These linear polymers are liquid over a wide range of molecular weights. Dimethicones remain important for their emollient properties and their ability to improve the skin feel of many types of skin care formulations. In the late 1970s, another important class of silicones was introduced to the industry. Cyclomethicones are volatile, low-viscosity silicone fluids that act as cosmetic solvents. They are particularly suited for use with other silicones and as delivery vehicles for a variety of active ingredients.
Starting in the 1980s, the increasing popularity of silicones in skin care applications prompted silicone manufacturers to develop a variety of new materials, which led to even broader use. Many of the new silicones were derivatives of dimethicones, where specific functional groups were added to the backbone of the silicone polymer. For example, grafting hydrophilic polyethylene oxide chains to the dimethicone backbone produces non-ionic silicone surfactants that are useful as emulsifiers, foam stabilizers and wetting agents. Another family of silicones was created by introducing phenyl groups onto the silicone backbone to produce fluids with a higher refractive index and increased compatibility with cosmetic waxes. These phenyl silicones are useful for color cosmetics such as lipsticks, where the goal is to produce a high gloss coating on the lips.
One of the newest and most rapidly growing classes of silicones used in skin care applications is silicone elastomers, which are made by cross-linking dimethicone polymers to produce elastomeric solids that have properties quite different from dimethicone fluids. As the degree of cross-linking increases, the silicone network becomes more rigid. Although they are produced by a different process, silicone resins can be thought of as representing the most extreme examples of cross-linked silicone polymers. Silicone resins have a tight, three-dimensional structure that results in rigid materials that can form hard, durable films.
There are numerous forms of silicones used in cosmetic products, particularly leave-on skincare products and all manner of hair-care products.

Silicones go by different names and are modified into numerous different formulas in order to perform the specific role expected of them like waterproofing, retaining moisture, adhering colour pigments, protecting our hair and imparting smoothness, and making the application of skincare products feel silky i.e. no tugging on the skin as it is spread on, and no oily, sticky feeling. They give our deodorants that velvety feel, allowing them to dry quickly, and they keep water-resistant sunscreens on our skin, even when we sweat or get wet.

In any product, all ingredients must be suspended in some base formula; some of the ingredients remain on the surface, some are absorbed. The intent is for the “actives” to get through. Moreover, the molecular structure of commonly used silicones makes it impossible for them to suffocate skin (not to mention skin doesn’t breathe). The unique molecular structure of silicones (large molecules with wide spaces between each molecule) allows them to form a permeable barrier and also explains why silicones rarely feel heavy or occlusive, although they offer protection against moisture loss. Interestingly, silicone has been shown to be helpful for offsetting dryness and flaking from common anti-acne active ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide and topical antibiotics. Also, silicones are sometimes used as fillers to improve the appearance of acne scars, which certainly wouldn’t be the case if silicone were a pore-clogging ingredient. Perhaps the most telling reason why silicones do not clog pores and cause acne (or blackheads) is because, from a chemistry standpoint, most silicones are volatile. That means their initially viscous (thick) texture evaporates quickly and does not penetrate the pore lining where acne is formed. Instead, they help ensure the even application of other ingredients and leave behind a silky, almost imperceptible feel that noticeably enhances skin’s texture and appearance; without irritation.

When it comes to our hair, silicones are conditioning workhorses. They are in most of  shampoos, conditioners and treatments, and many styling products; the most common are dimethicone and cyclomethicone. They can repair signs of damage, fill in cracks and crevices in hair’s surfaces, return water resistance to damaged areas and prevent new damage from occurring.

Silicones have revolutionized the application and longevity of most makeup products, including foundation, eyeshadows, blushes, and liquid and pencil eyeliners.
Silicones are critical in many foundation formulations to give them more ‘spreadability’ and a luxurious, comfortable feel on skin. Silicones in liquid foundation help keep it flexible on the face and maintain a fresh, dewy look. Without their benefits, you could be left with dry powder on your face, which would be more likely to move into wrinkles or laugh lines.
Silicones are used to increase water resistance in a formula. This is particularly useful for sun-protection products, foundations and powders, especially those that make the claim of being water-resistant and waterproof. We also use them to resist transfer onto clothing.

Today’s “state of the art” liquid foundations often are formulated as w/o emulsions. Unlike conventional emulsions where the oily (water-insoluble) ingredients are dispersed as droplets in water, w/o emulsions are droplets of water dispersed in the other ingredients (e.g., oils or silicones). For a foundation that incorporates silicones with hydrophobic pigments, w/s emulsions are ideal vehicles. Such formulations have pleasant aesthetics, excellent spreading characteristics and optimize the film-forming properties of silicone resins.To prepare stable w/s emulsions, special polymeric silicone emulsifiers are required. These emulsifiers are made by grafting hydrophilic groups such as polyethers onto a dimethicone backbone. Common examples are PEG/PPG-18/18 dimethicone, bis-PEG/PPG-14/14 dimethicone and cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 dimethicone. Silicone emulsifiers are typically liquid at RT and do not require waxes for emulsion stabilization, which creates a heavier feel. Formulators can explore new possibilities with silicone emulsifiers to respond to ongoing consumer demands for next-generation products with innovative textures, feel and improved performance.
Even the lips are not immune to silicone’s charms. It makes Lipstick last for hours. Another important property of silicones is their ability to act as a carrier for colour pigments. ‘If you want a high-performance, long-lasting lipstick, you need silicones.
Silicone resins such as trimethylsiloxysilicate and polymethylsilsesquioxane are film-formers that improve adhesion of pigments to the skin and transfer resistance. These resins are soluble in cyclomethicone and many other silicone fluids so they are easy to incorporate into cosmetic products. They can also be used in lipsticks to provide long-lasting color with greatly reduced transfer properties. In lip products, a high gloss film as well as attractive color is desirable. Phenyl silicones such as phenyl trimethicone are popular in this application. In addition to imparting gloss, phenyl silicones are more soluble in cosmetic waxes used in lipstick, a property that reduces the problem of syneresis, or bleeding of oil from the lipstick.

Silicone in hiding wrinkles: A better approach to concealing wrinkles is to apply materials with optical properties that allow them to reflect and scatter light in such a way as to reduce the visibility of wrinkles and other skin imperfections. This phenomenon is often referred to as the “soft focus” effect because it is similar to what happens when skin is photographed with a camera that is out of focus; skin features such as wrinkles are “blurred” by the effect of the treatment. Silicone fluids offer the same benefits for delivering soft focus particles to the skin. The refractive index of the silicone can be adjusted by choosing a dimethicone fluid or a phenyl silicone that has a higher refractive index. Spherical silicone elastomer and silicone resin particles are gaining in popularity for face care products. These are useful for soft focus applications because they have a different refractive index than organic cosmetic oils. Light scattering typically increases when the oils and the particles in the film have different refractive indexes. Apart from their aesthetic and optical properties, silicone elastomer particles offer the added benefit of absorbing sebum.

Skin Aging prevention: Many anti-aging skincare products use silicone elastomers. These are our friend when it comes to hiding the telltale signs of aging. They impart a soft, bouncy feel to the skin. They also optically help blur fine lines and wrinkles, so they have really advanced the anti-aging category.
Many skin care products make claims for the prevention of skin aging by protecting the skin against the damaging effects of pollution, cigarette smoke, free radicals and other environmental insults. These claims have some scientific basis, but by far the most important factor in skin aging is exposure to the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight. Countless studies have shown that ultraviolet radiation causes cumulative skin damage that leads to loss of elasticity, uneven pigmentation and other signs of aged skin. The most effective prevention is regular use of sunscreen, which protects the skin against exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Silicone fluids are widely used in sunscreen formulations because of their ability to reduce the oily and sticky skin feel associated with high levels of organic sunscreen oils. Silicone fluids with phenyl groups have better solubility in sunscreen oils and this can increase the effectiveness of the sunscreen, presumably by producing a more uniform film on the skin. Silicone waxes in which long-chain alkyl groups have been grafted onto the silicone backbone have been shown to increase the protective effect of sunscreens. These silicone waxes are solids that affect the rheology of the formulation; they increase the viscosity of the sunscreen film on the skin so that it has a greater tendency to stay in place.

A number of different polymers are used to increase the water resistance of sunscreen formulations. Many are acrylate polymers and silicone manufacturers have produced hybrid silicone-acrylate copolymers that offer the benefits of both. Other silicone film-formers such as silicone resins have been shown to increase the water resistance of sunscreens.

Cyclomethicone is a popular carrier fluid for inorganic sunscreen dispersions, particularly when the sunscreen particles have a surface treatment to make them more hydrophobic. Silicone additives such as polyether-modified dimethicones are included to prevent re-agglomeration.

This Article is written by Mr. Vinay Kumar Singh, Chief Research Officer, Paramount Cosmetics India.

PAINTINDIA 2018 in Mumbai

We at Elkay, are excited to talk about our silicone products in a wide range of applications in Paints, Coating and Construction industries.

We are always looking to enhance lives using our highly flexible silicone chemistry.

It is always a pleasure to interact with our current and future customers.

The Elkay team looks forward to welcoming you in Mumbai at Stand No.H-13, Hall 1 on 8-10 March 2018!

Silicone products are widely used in coating industries for protection and also for styling the applications.

Foam control, water repellent, wetting, leveling and slip are some important applications. Silicone polymers are used to ease application of paints.

Silane siloxane blends

Silane siloxane blends are useful in Water repellent action,  Unique formulation,  Deep penetration of absorbent surfaces,  Reduction in water uptake, increases substrate durability (vertical/angled surfaces),  Surface is ready in less than 24 hours after treatment,  Require low dosage ,  5 year life in most environments,  Environmentally compatible and  Excellent on cement, plaster, exterior walls, non-vitrified tiles, porous stones.

Functional siloxanes

Functional siloxanes are applicable in Water repellent action,  Excellent bonding with inorganic pigmented surfaces (like iron oxides),  Reduction in water uptake, increases substrate durability,  Surface is ready in less than 12 hours after treatment,  5 year life in most environments,  Environmentally compatible,  Gives gloss and may deepen colour of the substrate,  Excellent on cement, plaster, exterior walls, non-vitrified tiles, porous stones,  Improves water resistance and mar resistance when added to paints (2-5%).

We are always looking to enhance lives using our highly flexible silicone chemistry. We at Elkay, are excited to talk about our silicone products in a wide range of applications in Agriculture, Construction, Petrochemicals, Textiles, Pharmaceuticals, Personal Care, Medicament, Rubber & Tyre, Chemical Process and various customized applications. It is always a pleasure to interact with our current and future customers. The Elkay team looks forward to welcoming you in Mumbai at Stand No. D38, Hall 1 on 25-26 April 2018!

To know more details about Elkay Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., do visit www.elkaysilicones.com

Elkay Chemicals showcased its silicone products

At Chemspec India 2017, Elkay presented its entire range of silicone products and solutions. Catering to several industries and sectors, Elkay’s products generated a deep interest across several markets: agriculture, construction, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, personal care, medicament, textile, rubber & tyre and chemical process.

The Elkay team spent 2 exciting days, in conversation with Indian as well as global visitors. Elkay silicones stall was visited by more than 350 visitors – including our esteemed customers, fortune 500 customers, vendors and new customers.

One Star Export House Certificate

Elkay Chemicals has been consistently generating a sizable export business since 1999. In recognition of this, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade India has upgraded our certification to the ‘One Star Export House’.

This prestigious certificate is a driver in further focusing on exports and international markets.

216,000 extra Gerbera flowers by using AG-100

AG-100 super spreading agent was tested on gerbera flowers at the research center of a government affiliated agriculture university in Maharashtra, India. The result was 21 % more flowers obtained by three foliar sprays using 0.05% AG-100 mixed with micro nutrients during the 1st 60 days of the plant cycle. Not only did the number of flowers increase, stem lengths were longer and the flower diameter increased by an incredible 32%. This translates to 216,000 extra flowers with better quality per acre!

AG-100 (silicone adjuvant) works as super spreading, super wetting and super penetrating adjuvant and because of better micro nutrient absorption, the yield and quality increased. Horticulture and floriculture growers can get the benefit of better yield and better quality in their crops by using Elkay AG series silicone adjuvants.

Elkay attends Agrochemicals Conference 2016

Elkay Chemicals team member, Dr. Bilson Shukla, attended the 6th Agrochemicals Conference 2016 on 19th July 2016 at FICCI, New Delhi. Role of crop protection chemicals was the theme based on the statement of Shri Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. He said that “My dream is to see farmers double their income by 2022, when the country completes 75 years of independence”.

India is fourth largest producer of agrochemicals worldwide. The Indian agrochemical industry is valued at $4.76 billion in 2015 and is estimated to grow at CAGR of 12% to reach $8.38 billion by 2019. Use of crop protection chemicals i.e. insecticides, fungicides, herbicides can increase crop productivity by 25-50% by mitigating crop loss due to pest attacks.

Elkay manufacturers agricultural adjuvants to increase the efficiency of crop protection chemicals and crop fertilization chemicals. An adjuvant is compound that is added to a pesticide formulation or tank mix applications to enhance its effectiveness. Adjuvants enhance the penetration of pesticides into plants by ensuring adequate spray coverage and keeping pesticides in contact with plant tissues, or by increasing rates of penetration. Elkay is a leading manufacturer of silicone superspreading adjuvants which find extensive use in such applications.

This conference was organized by FICCI in association with the Department of Agriculture Cooperation & Farmers Welfare and the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Government of India.

Elkay Silicones showcased its silicone products

Elkay ​Silicones ​showcase​d​ its silicone products and solutions at Chemspec 2016, Mumbai

At Chemspec 2016, Elkay presented its entire range of silicone products and solutions. Catering to several industries and sectors, Elkays products generated a deep interest across several sectors: textile, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, petrochemicals, personal care, construction, rubber & tyre and others.

The Elkay team spent 2 exciting days, in ​discussion​ with Indian as well as global visitors. Our stall was visited by 350-400 visitors – including our long-standing​ customers, fortune 500 customers, vendors and new customers.