Volatile corrosion inhibitors (VCIs) are chemicals that can reduce the corrosion rate of metals and alloys. It’s important to note that VCIs are also commonly known as vapor corrosion inhibitors. The two terms mean the same thing, so there is no difference between volatile corrosion inhibitors and vapor corrosion inhibitors.
VCIs work by releasing their chemical compounds into the air, which are then transported as vapor throughout an enclosed space, according to the NACE International Standard TM0208. The vapor eventually condenses onto metal surfaces, where it is absorbed and has a hydrophobic effect that helps inhibit corrosion. VCIs are also referred to as vapor inhibitors, vapor-phase corrosion inhibitors, and vapor-transported corrosion inhibitors.
ZERUST® VCI
There are various formulations of VCIs available. VCIs work in different systems and applications. VCIs can be found in films, oils, coatings, and cleaners, and more. There are formulations that provide protection for ferrous, nonferrous, or multimetal applications. The amount of vapor phase compared to contact phase inhibitors can also vary.
One advantage of using VCIs is that they are volatile at ambient temperatures. This means they can penetrate hard-to-reach areas in metallic structures where corrosion might otherwise occur. They are a useful solution for industries that require long-term metal protection, like oil and gas, transportation, and military industries.
ZERUST®/EXCOR® is the leading provider of comprehensive corrosion management solutions. We offer a range of VCI products and services that can help protect your metal assets from corrosion. ZERUST® VCI film, in particular, has proven to be effective and safe for over 50 years, and has been used by thousands of customers worldwide.
If you’re unsure which VCI product would be best for your application, it’s always a good idea to check with a ZERUST®/EXCOR® representative. We can help you determine the most effective corrosion management solution for your metal assets.
ICT®510-C VCI Film provides cost-effective and versatile protection against rust and corrosion damage for metal assets in shipping and storage. Additionally, it’s available in ferrous, non-ferrous, and multimetal formulations, as well as various-sized rolls, sheets, tubing, and bags.
ICT®420 is an acid-free, pH-neutral, and non-abrasive VCI kraft paper that merges the practicality and cost-efficiency of paper-based packaging with advanced corrosion protection. Consequently, it streamlines the preservation of metals during work-in-progress, shipping, and storage.
ICT®420-35P VCI Poly Kraft Paper is an acid-free, pH-neutral, and non-abrasive kraft paper coated with a one-mil thick ZERUST® ICT® polyethylene layer containing Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs). As a result, providing the kraft paper with increased tear and moisture resistance, making it an efficient and cost-effective solution for the corrosion protection of ferrous metals during work-in-progress, shipping, and storage.
ICT®430-35SR VCI Scrim Paper is an acid-free, pH-neutral, and non-abrasive VCI kraft paper that’s scrim-reinforced (3/4 mil polyethylene layer and fiberglass scrim). As a result, providing effective corrosion protection with the convenience and affordability of a paper wrapping product with superior strength that avoids ripping and tearing during work-in-progress, shipping, and storage.
ICT®427 is an acid-free, pH-neutral, and non-abrasive premium VCI paper formulated to provide robust corrosion protection for demanding situations—such as high humidity and challenging metal parts during work-in-progress, shipping, and storage.
ICT®432-35P is an acid-free, pH-neutral, and non-abrasive VCI kraft paper coated with a 3/4 mil plain polyethylene layer. As a result, providing the kraft paper with increased tear and moisture resistance, making it an efficient and cost-effective solution for the corrosion protection of multiple metal types during work-in-progress, shipping, and storage.
ICT®510-C Ferrous VCI Film provides cost-effective and targeted protection against rust damage for ferrous metals, such as steel, iron, and cast iron in shipping, storage, and work-in-progress.
ICT®510-C VCI Multimetal Film provides cost-effective and versatile protection against rust and corrosion damage for ferrous and non-ferrous metals in shipping, storage, and work-in-progress.
ICT®510-C Non-ferrous VCI Film provides cost-effective and versatile protection against corrosion damage for non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, brass, and bronze, in shipping, storage, and work-in-progress.
Vapor Capsules are portable VCI emitter diffusers containing proven ZERUST® Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCI). They protect metals in hard-to-reach areas of control panels, electrical cabinets, or other enclosed spaces from corrosion, even when they are in operation. Additionally, use these VCI emitter diffusers as a supplement to other ZERUST® VCI packaging products for added protection.
ActivPak® is a versatile and powerful fast-acting VCI sachet designed to address flash rust and corrosion concerns in demanding scenarios, including overseas shipping and polluted factory environments.
ActivPak®(LS) Flash Corrosion VCI Emitters offer fast-acting corrosion protection in challenging conditions, such as factories, marine environments, waste treatment facilities, and power plants.
