Disclosed is a method for production of a methyl ester based formulation. The method involves: providing a feedstock containing about 1% to about 100% canola oil; removing water from the feedstock; heating the feedstock to at least about 60 C.; mixing a solution of about 90% to about 100% (v/v) methanol and a strong base with the heated feedstock to produce a mixture containing methyl ester; and allowing the mixture containing methyl ester to rest for at least one hour. The composition of the methanol and strong base solution being calculated based on the free fatty acid content of the feedstock. The methyl ester based formulations produced by the method can be used as ecofriendly penetrating oils, lubricating oils, machining fluid or releasing agents.

A method for preparation of a mold (10) intended to form a slab from a mixture of agglomerate comprising the steps of depositing over the mold surfaces a sheet (15) of PVA-based plastic material so as to form with it a surface for subsequent contact with the mixture introduced into the mold for forming the slab, whereby in at least some areas a layer (14) of a fluid agent containing PVA in a solution is interposed between the sheet (15) and the mold surfaces. A plant for carrying out the method and a method for production of a slab are also described.