Inorganic zinc coatings are commonly used to protect metal structures against corrosion. Like silicate paint, this type of coating has unique characteristics that make it particularly suitable for certain industrial and marine applications. In this article, we take a closer look at this type of coating, its advantages and disadvantages, and its areas of application.
What is an inorganic zinc coating?
An inorganic zinc coating is a zinc-based protective product applied mainly to metal surfaces. Unlike organic coatings, these use an inorganic binder (usually a zinc silicate) to hold the zinc particles in place. This process creates cathodic protection, offering effective defense against corrosion even in the case of superficial damage.
Advantages of inorganic zinc coatings
Inorganic zinc coatings offer many advantages, particularly when it comes to the long-term protection of structures exposed to harsh environments. Here are just a few of their key benefits:
- Excellent corrosion resistance: Inorganic zinc provides cathodic protection, which means that even if the coating is damaged, the underlying metal surface remains protected against rust.
- Durability: Inorganic zinc coatings are more resistant to mechanical wear, abrasion and severe climatic conditions than conventional organic coatings.
- High-temperature resistance: Unlike other coatings, inorganic zinc coatings can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for industrial infrastructures.
- Compatibility with other paint systems: They can be used as a base coat before the application of other topcoats to enhance protection.
Disadvantages of inorganic zinc coatings
As with any product, inorganic zinc coatings also have a few disadvantages that are important to bear in mind:
- Delicate application: Their application requires a well-prepared surface (usually sandblasted) and specific conditions to ensure optimum adhesion.
- Drying time: Inorganic zinc coatings have a relatively long drying time compared with some organic products.
- High cost: This type of coating is often more expensive to purchase and apply, due to the materials used and the precautions required.
Applications for inorganic zinc coatings
Inorganic zinc coatings are mainly used in environments where corrosion is a major problem. Here are some examples of typical applications:
- Marine industry: Protection of ship hulls, offshore structures and oil platforms.
- Industrial infrastructure: Steel structures in refineries, power plants and bridges.
- Petrochemical industry: Piping, tanks and other installations exposed to corrosive atmospheres.
Example of application by Zindn Tech
Application process for inorganic zinc coatings
To obtain the best protection performance, the coating must be applied with the utmost care:
- Surface preparation: The surface must be perfectly clean and sandblasted (SA 2.5 minimum) to remove all traces of oxidation, oil or contaminants.
- Application: The coating is generally applied using an airless spray gun to ensure even distribution and good adhesion. For inorganic zinc coatings, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in terms of temperature and humidity.
- Drying time: It is important to allow sufficient time for the coating to dry and harden properly before handling or exposure to harsh conditions.
Inorganic zinc coatings are the solution of choice for corrosion protection of metal structures subjected to severe environmental conditions. Their application may be more technical and costly than other solutions, but their durability and effectiveness make them a worthwhile long-term investment. If you’re working on projects in sectors such as the marine or petrochemical industries, it may be worth considering this option.
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