Fluoro-silicone oil IOTA FT50, chemically defined as a fluoroalkyl-modified silicone, stands out as a high-performance material offering a unique combination of properties derived from its specialized structure. Presenting as a transparent liquid with a viscosity range of 300-1000 cSt at 25°C and a density of 1.15-1.17 g/cm³ at 20°C, its defining characteristic is a high fluorine content of 50%. This fluorination underpins its exceptional capabilities.

Renowned for its outstanding chemical stability, IOTA FT50 exhibits excellent resistance to oils and solvents. It further demonstrates reliable lubricity, even under high-pressure conditions, making it inherently valuable for demanding applications.

One of its primary roles is as an efficient defoamer/antifoaming agent, particularly potent in solvent-based systems. It excels at both rapidly collapsing existing foam and effectively suppressing new foam formation. Beyond foam control, it simultaneously imparts beneficial leveling and wetting effects within formulations. Its compatibility is broad, functioning effectively in diverse resin systems including acrylic, alkyd, polyamide, epoxy, nitrocellulose, polyester, polyurethane, and vinyl resins. This makes it a highly versatile additive for coatings and printing inks. Supplied as a 100% active material, it is typically diluted to a 1% concentration using ketone solvents like methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) for ease of application. Within the coating system, the recommended dosage range for this 1% dilution is a remarkably low 0.1% to 0.7%.

The defoaming efficacy of IOTA FT50 extends beyond paints and inks into the oil and petrochemical processing industries. Here, it effectively combats foam during various refining and chemical manufacturing operations. The recommended dilution ratio (to 1%) and usage level (0.1-0.7% of the dilution) remain consistent for these applications.

Leveraging its inherent lubricity and chemical resistance, IOTA FT50 serves as a premium base oil for formulating specialty greases. These greases are tailored for extreme environments where conventional lubricants fail, offering protection against aggressive chemicals, solvents, and high pressure.

In the personal care and household product sector (daily chemicals), IOTA FT50 acts as a highly effective smoothing additive. It imparts a characteristically luxurious, silky-smooth feel to finished products, enhancing consumer sensory experience.

Finally, the fluoroalkyl groups provide exceptional hydrophobic and oleophobic properties. This makes IOTA FT50 an excellent finishing agent for leather, providing durable waterproofing and anti-fouling protection. It helps leather resist stains from both water-based and oil-based substances, maintaining appearance and longevity.

In essence, IOTA FT50 is a versatile performer, delivering critical functions – from foam control and lubrication to surface modification and protection – across demanding industrial, chemical, and consumer good applications. Its high fluorine content and silicone backbone create a synergy that enables reliable performance where other materials fall short.