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. According to the NACE International Standard TM0208, VCIs work by releasing their chemical compounds into the air, which are then transported as vapor throughout an enclosed space. 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.
There are various formulations of VCIs available, which are designed to work in different systems and applications. For example, VCIs can be found in films, oils, coatings, and cleaners, and 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, which means they can penetrate hard-to-reach areas in metallic structures where corrosion might otherwise occur. This makes them a useful solution for industries that require long-term metal protection, such as the 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 been proven to be effective and safe for nearly 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.
Use ICT®510-C VCI Film for cost-effective and versatile protection against corrosion damage for metals in shipping and storage.
ZERUST® ICT® VCI Kraft Paper is a high-quality bio-based, recyclable, and biodegradable kraft paper that is saturated on both sides with ZERUST® corrosion inhibitors. The product integrates packaging materials with powerful vapor corrosion inhibitors for ferrous, non-ferrous, and multimetal parts.
ZERUST® ICT®420-35P is a VCI Poly Kraft Paper with proprietary ZERUST® ICT® formulations contained within the polyethylene coating (coating on one side of the sheet only).
ZERUST® ICT® Poly Coated Reinforced VCI Paper is a high-quality 35# kraft paper that is saturated on one side with proven ZERUST® corrosion inhibitors and laminated with a 3/4 mil polyethylene layer and fiberglass scrim on the back side to provide superior strength.
ZERUST® ICT®427 Premium VCI Paper is formulated to provide robust corrosion protection for demanding situations such as high humidity and challenging metal parts. Use ZERUST® ICT®427 Premium Paper in interleaving applications and to wrap and protect metals in shipment or storage.
ZERUST® ICT®432-35P is a kraft packaging paper containing ZERUST® Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs) coated with a plain polyethylene layer (coating on one side of the sheet only).
Use ICT®510-C VCI Film for cost-effective and versatile protection against corrosion damage for ferrous metals in shipping and storage.
Use ICT®510-C VCI Multimetal Film for cost-effective and versatile protection against corrosion damage for ferrous and non-ferrous metals in shipping and storage.
Use ICT®510-C Non-ferrous VCI Film for cost-effective and versatile protection against corrosion damage for non-ferrous metals such as aluminum, copper, brass, bronze, and galvanized steel in shipping and storage.
ZERUST® Vapor Capsules are portable VCI emitter diffusers that are used to protect metals in hard-to-reach areas of control panels, electrical cabinets, and other enclosed spaces.
ZERUST® ActivPak® VCI Sachets are easy-to-use diffusers that provide targeted corrosion protection. They work in minutes to prevent flash corrosion on bare metal surfaces in an enclosed space.
ZERUST® ActivPak®(LS) VCI packets are easy-to-use diffusers that provide targeted corrosion protection. They work in minutes to prevent flash corrosion on bare metal surfaces in an enclosed space.
