Inorganic zinc coatings are coatings with the unique ability to provide corrosion protection to surfaces such as steel. As the name implies, this type of coating contains a large amount of zinc metal dust mixed with a binder.
Inorganic zinc-rich coatings consist of high-build polysiloxanes or hybrid topcoats and primers made from inorganic zinc. The use of this type of coating and formulation to achieve steel protection is well known in the protective coating industry. Almost all zinc-based coatings are made with epoxy resin binders or inorganic silicates.
There are two main types of zinc-rich coatings on the market, each differing according to the type of binder used in the production process. Inorganic zinc-rich coatings usually contain a binder such as zinc silicate. Organic zinc-rich coatings, on the other hand, use polyurethane, butyl or epoxy resins. When the zinc-rich paint is accurately applied to the surface, the adhesive adheres to the attached zinc particles as well as the surface of the steel.
Contact between the two dissimilar metals will cause the primary cell to corrode when it experiences an electrolyte-rich environment. The zinc particles act as the anode, while the steel becomes the cathode in the galvanic battery. The action of the galvanic cells causes the zinc to corrode while protecting the steel from galvanic corrosion.
Inorganic zinc-rich coatings are unique because they provide better protection of metal surfaces despite scratches, pinholes, voids and other imperfections.
Inorganic zinc-rich coatings have the following properties:
It has excellent mechanical properties and can resist impact, scratch and wear.
These coatings are heat resistant up to 750°F.
Certain formulations of zinc-rich paint can be submerged in salt water, while others cannot.
Using zinc-rich paint as a topcoat is more difficult than other types of paint due to its porosity.
For best results, the Inorganic Zinc Rich Paint needs to be applied to a completely clean surface.
