Sustainable construction with concrete release agents from Vielhauer GmbH

Sustainability in the construction industry

Sustainability has transformed from a trend into a fundamental requirement in construction projects. Today, responsible resource use, energy minimization, and environmental compatibility are more crucial than ever.

To demonstrate sustainable construction, the German construction industry has increasingly adopted the following official certifications:

  • DGNB Certification
  • QNG Seal
  • EU Ecolabel

Sustainability in the concrete and cement industry

CO2 emissions in cement production

As a key ingredient in concrete, mortar, or screed, cement is a highly versatile binder and among the most widely used building materials globally. However, the cement industry is also one of the most energy-intensive sectors, carrying significant responsibility for climate protection. For years, efforts have been directed at reducing CO2 emissions and conserving natural resources.

 

In Germany, producing one ton of cement results in approximately 600 kg of CO2 emissions, with about two-thirds stemming from process emissions related to raw materials and one-third from fuel emissions. Overall, the cement industry in Germany contributes about 20 million tons of CO2 annually, representing roughly 2% of the country’s total CO2 emissions (source: VDZ – Verein Deutscher Zementwerke e.V.).

CO2 reduction today and For the future

For many decades, CEM I cement was the standard type in Germany. Today, reducing the amount of clinker—a primary source of CO2 emissions—in cement is technically feasible, though it largely depends on the availability of alternative materials like limestone powder, granulated blast furnace slag, fly ash, or burnt clay. Currently, CO2-reduced CEM II cements, such as CEM II/A-LL with limestone powder, are commonly used.

Looking forward, further reduction opportunities across the “clinker-cement-concrete-structure-demolition” value chain are essential to achieving CO2 neutrality by 2050, in line with EU targets. This includes the adoption of highly CO2-efficient cements like CEM II/C and CEM VI, which feature even lower clinker content.

Application Guide: Concrete release agents in precast plants

This guide provides detailed insights into the effective use of concrete release agents within precast production facilities. From selecting the ideal agent for various concrete types to application techniques that prevent residues and defects, this guide is essential for achieving clean, smooth finishes and optimizing production efficiency. Enhance the quality and consistency of your precast concrete with expert tips tailored to meet industry standards for durability and appearance.

Sustainable construction with concrete release agents from Vielhauer GmbH

Vielhauer GmbH’s eco-friendly concrete release agents are designed to support sustainable construction without compromising performance. Our products meet rigorous environmental standards and provide reliable separation for various formwork types, reducing the need for heavy chemical use. From improving efficiency in construction processes to minimizing waste and promoting healthier work environments, Vielhauer GmbH offers solutions that advance sustainable building practices while delivering exceptional results.

Mineralöl Vielhauer Schmierstoff GmbH MV Lub

Release agents for highest exposed concrete requirements

For projects demanding the finest exposed concrete finishes, our release agents are engineered to meet the strictest aesthetic and structural requirements. These agents prevent surface imperfections, discoloration, and pore formation, ensuring a smooth and uniform look that aligns with modern architectural standards. Whether you are working with highly specialized concrete formulations or need added durability and weather resistance, Vielhauer GmbH’s release agents deliver quality and precision, making them the preferred choice for high-exposure concrete surfaces.

Sustainability Management at Vielhauer GmbH

Environmental awareness and sustainable production processes pose significant challenges for many companies. However, at Vielhauer GmbH, we view sustainability not merely as a responsibility but as an opportunity—both for us and our customers.

 

As part of our sustainability strategy, we are continuously working to reduce emissions across the entire value chain—from raw material extraction and manufacturing to product production and potential recycling. In 2020, all Vielhauer GmbH production sites achieved gate-to-gate CO2 neutrality, a commitment that expanded to all subsidiaries and joint ventures in 2021. By 2025, we aim to extend this achievement to cradle-to-gate CO2 neutrality worldwide.

At Vielhauer GmbH, we stay attuned to both current and emerging developments, collaborating with customers to design the concrete release agents of the future.

Requirements for Concrete Release Agents

As the concrete and cement industry shifts towards clinker-reduced cements, new challenges continue to arise in producing concrete components, leading to evolving requirements for concrete release agents. For instance, using blast furnace slag with sulfite content increases the risk of corrosion in steel formwork, while limestone powder heightens the risk of lime efflorescence. The cement type significantly impacts both the quality of the concrete surface and the potential for formwork texture, making it essential to match the cement with the appropriate concrete release agent.

 

At Vielhauer GmbH, we stay attuned to both current and emerging developments, collaborating with customers to design the concrete release agents of the future.

Calculation of the Carbon Footprint of Vielhauer GmbH Products (TÜV-Certified Method)

Calculating the carbon footprint is increasingly crucial for measuring product emissions. The Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) includes all emissions throughout the value chain associated with the product.

 

This PCF calculation follows the ISO 14067 standard, which establishes consistent guidelines for sector-specific standards. However, as no sector-specific standard currently exists for lubricants and release agents, Vielhauer GmbH developed a transparent methodology for PCF calculation, officially certified by TÜV.

 

By publishing this methodology document, Vielhauer GmbH has taken a significant step toward standardizing the CO2 calculation process, guiding our suppliers on the required format for relevant data submissions.

At Vielhauer GmbH, we stay attuned to both current and emerging developments, collaborating with customers to design the concrete release agents of the future.

Concrete Release Agents from Vielhauer GmbH - Sustainable & Efficient

At Vielhauer GmbH, we prove that sustainability and quality go hand in hand with our extensive portfolio of concrete release agents. Concrete composition, performance demands, and conditions in precast plants vary greatly, requiring a tailored approach to select the most suitable sustainable concrete release agent for each specific application.

 

Regardless of how concrete formulations evolve in the future, Vielhauer GmbH is committed to providing the ideal concrete release agent for every new challenge or developing it collaboratively with our customers.