WEG, Nexa Partner on Reuse of Mining Waste for Anti-Corrosive Paints

WEG has partnered with Nexa, one of the world's largest zinc producers, to develop liquid anticorrosive paints with the addition of jarosite, a waste derived from zinc metallurgy.

The new solution will focus on carbon steel and cast-iron surfaces, with the capacity expected to provide protective effects, reducing the use of conventional raw materials and promoting circular economy in the industry.

The initial results of the project and preliminary studies indicate that the paint has high compatibility with epoxy, alkyd, and acrylic resins, with effective corrosion protection.

The partnership between the two companies will last for three years and involves an investment of R$ 4 million, raised from the Financier of Studies and Projects (Finep), a public agency for the promotion of Science, Technology, and Innovation.

The goal is to develop innovative solutions through this initiative, leveraging WEG's expertise in paints and Nexa's expertise in mining and metallurgy waste beneficiation.

"WEG promotes technological partnerships through open innovation to accelerate development and generate innovative solutions, as in this case where the development of a coating that can harness the anticorrosive potential of jarosite, a mineral generated in the zinc beneficiation process, is being studied," said Rafael Torezan, managing director of WEG Coatings Business Unit.

The use of jarosite as a pigment originated at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), with the support of Professor Fernando Cotting, who conducted initial tests and presented the viability of paint development.

"The transformation of mining and metallurgy towards a sustainable path is possible, and projects like this demonstrate it. Circular economy is the best alternative for disposed waste, and Nexa's Mining Lab platform promotes and makes feasible this type of development, aligned with the best ESG practices," said Caio Van Deursen, innovation manager at Nexa.