Can water-based rust inhibitors provide enough protection for export shipments?
Yes. Under the right conditions, water-based rust inhibitors for export shipments, such as ZERUST® Axxatec™ water-based rust inhibitors, can provide effective protection for export shipments. These aqueous corrosion inhibitors deliver strong short- to medium-term corrosion protection, typically up to 3–6 months‡ when applied correctly. They perform best when shipments are packed in sealed or controlled environments, such as VCI bags, barrier films, or vacuum-sealed packaging, and when metal surfaces are clean and dry prior to application. For maximum performance, the coating should be applied at the recommended film thickness, allowed to dry completely, and ideally used in conjunction with ZERUST® VCI packaging to enhance vapor corrosion protection during transit.
Water-based Axxatec™ products are widely used in export applications because they are safer, more environmentally friendly, and easier to remove than traditional oil-based coatings. However, for long-duration ocean shipments (especially those exceeding six months), high-humidity or condensation-prone conditions, or when protecting corrosion-sensitive metals such as cast iron or bare steel, a ZERUST® Axxanol™ solvent- or oil-based coating is recommended. These coatings provide a durable, long-lasting physical barrier against moisture and humidity, offering protection from six months up to three years‡, depending on the product and environmental conditions.
For optimal export protection when oil or solvent coatings are not suitable, ZERUST® recommends combining an Axxatec™ water-based inhibitor with ZERUST® VCI packaging materials such as films, bags, or emitters, along with moisture control packets for humidity control. For customized recommendations based on shipment duration, metal type, and environmental exposure, contact your local ZERUST® representative, who can design the most effective and cost-efficient corrosion prevention system for your specific export needs.
Axxatec™ 30C is a water-based rust Inhibitor designed to provide short-term indoor storage and in-transit protection. In addition to the corrosion protection offered, Axxatec™ 30C may also be used as a light-duty cleaner-rust preventative combination product.
Axxatec™ 48C is a water-based aluminum rust preventative liquid concentrate that also protects ferrous and yellow metals during indoor storage, shipping, and assembly.
Axxatec™ 80C is a water-based liquid concentrate rust preventative designed to provide long-lasting protection during indoor storage, shipping, and assembly.
Axxatec™ 8110C is an easy-to-use water-based corrosion-inhibiting additive for the protection of interior surfaces and parts comprised of iron, steel, aluminum, copper, and brass within closed systems.
Axxatec™ DA-23C is a dual-action water-based rust preventative and cleaner with low or no foaming that is designed to provide short-term rust protection and light-duty cleaning.
Axxatec™ DA-24C is a dual-action water-based yellow metal rust preventative and cleaner with low or no foaming that is designed to provide short-term rust protection and light-duty cleaning.
Axxatec™ DA-40AL is a dual-action aluminum rust preventative and cleaner with low foaming that is designed to provide short-term rust protection and light-duty cleaning.
Axxatec™ 85-F is a ready-to-use water-based VCI rust preventative liquid designed for fogging and spraying applications. It protects ferrous metals using ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology.
Axxatec™ 87-M is a ready-to-use foggable water-based rust preventative designed for fogging and spraying applications. It protects ferrous metals using ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology and is multimetal compatible.
Axxatec™ 87-MB is a ready-to-use water-based rust inhibitor liquid designed for fogging and spraying applications. It protects ferrous metals by means of ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology and is multimetal compatible.
Axxatec™ 87-MW3 is a ready-to-use winterized foggable water-based rust preventative liquid designed for fogging and spraying applications in cold weather. It protects ferrous metals using ZERUST® contact inhibitors and proven Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technology and is multimetal compatible.
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