In its concern for the environment, Cortec is advocating the use of biobased coatings that are not only inherently biodegradable but, in most cases, do not require removal before painting or welding, according to the global leader in corrosion control technologies.

A breakthrough formulation that Cortec has created in its laboratories is the BioCorr rust preventive, a water-based, biobased solution, intended for the preservation of metals in storage and during transportation.

Unlike rust preventative oils, this product leaves a dry film on the surface of the metal that is virtually undetectable, says a company spokesman, adding this feature helps to create a clean workplace and prevents material waste.

A comprehensive study on BioCorr was conducted in collaboration with the Laboratory for Materials Protection at University of Zagreb in Croatia. The reseach paper was presented by Cortec at EuroCorr 2017, a European corrosion conference, held in the Czech Republic in September.

“Biobased coatings are rapidly gaining market share due to their low cost, effectiveness and excellent environmental profile. Traditional petroleum-derived rust preventives require expensive degreasers and hazardous disposal methods. In contrast, biobased products are inherently biodegradable and in most cases do not require removal before painting or welding, providing a far more economical solution,’’ says the spokesman.

Furthere, he says, several raw materials employed in the production of conventional anticorrosion coatings pose a severe threat to the environment and human health. Global market trends are moving towards sustainable and renewable materials as the public is becoming more aware of the importance of utilising environmentally safe solutions.

Cortec is able to offer ecologically safe corrosion control solutions whose performance has outgrown conventional rust preventatives. “Not only are these bio-based environmentally safe alternatives functionally superior to conventional petroleum-derived products, they also provide a far more economical solution. In addition to offering end-users excellent environmental profile, superior corrosion protection, BioCorr is typically 40 per cent less expensive than the traditional petroleum derived rust preventatives,’’ he claims.

Cortec Corporation manufactures VpCI (Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor) and MCI (Migrating Corrosion Inhibitor) corrosion control technologies for metalworking, construction, electronics, water treatment, oil and gas, packaging, and other industries.