Cortec Corporation has introduced VpCI-386, an organic water-based acrylic coating that provides a multimetal corrosion protection in harsh, outdoor, unsheltered applications. Since it can be used as a direct-to-metal coating or as a finish coat, it reduces costs associated with corrosion said the company.

The complex mixture of non-toxic, organic inhibitors offers protection that Cortec said is more effective than most paints and zinc-rich primers. The product is low VOC and non-flammable. The company said VpCI-386 has an advantage over coatings formulated with inorganic pigments because the resistance has been improved by replacing pigments and metal oxides with more effective micro-corrosion inhibitors.

The combination of additives in VpCI-386 provides a composite polymer barrier that retards the reaction of metal ionization. A protective film is adsorbed onto metal surfaces and VpCI microcorrosion inhibitor molecules form a very thin micro-layer that reaches every area of the metal, protecting even hard-to-reach surfaces against micro-corrosion. VpCI-386 forms a fast-drying thixotropic coating that is resistant to sagging or running off and protects against corrosive electrolytes in most aggressive environments.

It is a clear coating that allows visual inspection of the metal surface after application. It can be easily pigmented with pigment dispersions. The coating is washable, has good chemical resistance and is UV resistant, giving optimal outdoor performance without cracking or chipping upon prolonged exposure to sunlight. It is effective over wide array of substrates; galvanized, carbon and stainless steels, cast iron, aluminum, copper, concrete, wood, plaster and masonry.