Defoamers are chemical additives that hamper and reduce foam formation in industrial processes. For major industrial processes, foams pose a severe threat. It causes deformity on surface coatings and hinders the efficient filling of containers. There are numerous oil-based and water-based formulas available to prevent the formation of foams. Water-based defoamer is a modified silicon dimethicone high-efficiency defoamer emulsion formulated to diminish foam in aqueous systems. In contrast, oil-based defoamers are formulated with different oils and waxes dispersed in the water base. 

What Are Water-based Defoamers?

As per the name, water-based defoamers employ water as the carrier. It contains about 60% to 95% of water. Technically they are oil-in-water emulsions based on fat or Oil, including mineral oil, vegetable oil, natural or synthetic waxes. Using water as their carrier, these active ingredients are available in emulsified form; these defoamers are well formulated for water-based processes and can be dispersed into water. They can effectively suppress foam. 

Benefits of Water-based Defoamers 

Compared to other types of defoamers, water-based have numerous advantages, including 

• Cheaper formulations
• Better performance 
• Broader compatibility 
• Higher environmental friendliness 

Where is Water-based Defoamers Used?

Water-based Defoamer chemical was first used in the paper industry, and later it was implemented in different segments due to its cost-effectiveness, environment friendliness, biodegradability, and other benefits. Beyond paper, they are used in 

• Agriculture
• Parts Washing
• Food Beverages 
• Fermentation process
• Paintings and coatings 
• Water waste treatment 
• Textile processing
• Chemical Formulation 

Phosphoric acid defoamers are effective during the wet process. IT is majorly used in fertilizer and industrial phosphoric acid salt production.

What Are Oil-based Defoamers 

Oil-based defoamers are not emulsified; they are based on mineral oil or polyether. The oily strong defoamer is formulated for many oil-water systems. The formula has outstanding defoaming and fast foam suppression. High dispersibility is ideal for controlling acid-based systems with temperatures above 200 degrees C and 20%. 

Defoamer Chemical Suppliers recommend this defoamer for non-aqueous systems and are typically designed to remove the surface foam. 

Benefits of Oil-based Defoamers?

Oil-based defoamers are composed of mineral Oil or polyether without emulsifications. They are beneficial due to 

• High in performance 
• Easily dispersible 
• High cost-benefit ratio
• Excellent compatibility 
• Improved capacity utilization 

Where Are Oil-based Defoamers Used?

• Painting 
• Adhesives
• Chemical process
• Lubricant Industry 
• Pigment and Dyes 
• Textile Processing 
• Water Treatment 
• Pul Processing and finishing 
• Laboratory 

Water-based Defoamers vs Oil-based Defoamers

An aqueous defoamer's cost is relatively cheaper than oily. It can be implemented in a range of industrial applications like textile printing, dyeing, pulp and paper, chemical reaction, petrochemical, and metalworking fluid, fermentation, water treatment, and much more. 

However, the price of an oily defoamer is high, but the amount of formulation used is comparatively small and can achieve optimal results. If used with an amalgamation of other defoamers, it can substantially reduce the costs. 

You should use foaming system oil or water-based agents according to your needs. 

Common key factors of water-based and oil-based foaming agents

• Stable structure and chemically inert
• Non-toxic and friendly to the environment 
• Less dosage and long-lasting foam controlling 
• It can be used in a wide range of application
• Excellent performance in all temperature

NAQ Global is a leader as a provider of Phosphoric Acid Defoamer with years of experience. We are committed to providing a tailored and perfect solution for all our customers. With years of experience and a proficient R&D team, we can address all the solutions of industrial needs.