In response to growing health and regulatory concerns surrounding oxime-based silicone coatings, Everest Systems is proud to reaffirm its commitment to safety and innovation by offering MEKO-free solutions through its advanced alkoxy-based silicone technologies, under the brand name Silkoxy.
Recent industry findings have identified methyl ethyl ketoxime (MEKO), the byproduct produced during the cure of all oxime-based roof coatings, as a Category 1B carcinogen. MEKO, also known as 2-butanone oxime (CAS Registry Number: 96-29-7), is typically released at concentrations of more than 4% from oxime roof coatings and has been linked to significant health risks. In the European Union, MEKO is classified as a carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic (CMR) substance and is banned under REACH Annex XVII in consumer products at levels as low as 0.1%.
Major manufacturers, including Dow Chemical, have announced plans to phase out MEKO emissions from consumer and professional products by 2028, and from industrial applications by 2030.
Everest Systems has long anticipated the need for safer alternatives and has invested in the development of alkoxy-based silicone coatings that emit no MEKO. These formulations not only prevent exposure to carcinogenic substances, but they also eliminate the strong and unpleasant oxime odor that can lead to concerns and complaints from building occupants during application. Alkoxy technology provides superior adhesion to most roof substrates and demonstrates adhesion values of over twice those of oxime chemistry.
Everest Systems is proud to be one of very few manufacturers in the United States that currently offers an alkoxy based silicone roof coating formulation.
“As a company rooted in safety, sustainability, and performance, Everest Systems is proud to lead the industry with solutions that protect both people and the environment,” said John Linnell, CEO of Everest Systems. “Our Silkoxy brand, using alkoxy technology, reflects Everest’s proactive approach to regulatory compliance and our dedication to delivering high-quality, low-impact products.”
Contractors, facility managers, and building owners are encouraged to explore Everest’s MEKO-free product line as a responsible and future-ready alternative. By choosing Everest Systems’ Silkoxy roof coatings, stakeholders can ensure safer installations without compromising performance.
Photo Caption: Application of Silkoxy roof coating.