No. VCI is compatible with electronics when properly formulated and applied. Test data show that ZERUST® VCI products do not adversely affect electronic or electrical components, which directly answers the common question, is VCI safe for electronic component protection? On the contrary, Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor Technology (VCI) helps improve reliability by preventing corrosion that is too small to be seen by the naked eye. For this reason, manufacturers safely use ZERUST® VCI packaging to protect instruments, devices, and equipment that contain electronic and electrical components.
How VCI Works with Electronic Components
VCI protects electronic components by releasing corrosion-inhibiting molecules into the surrounding airspace. These molecules migrate throughout the enclosure and adsorb onto exposed metal surfaces, forming an invisible molecular layer that blocks moisture, oxygen, and corrosive contaminants.
In addition to sealed packaging, VCI emitters are commonly used to protect electronic panels, control cabinets, and electrical enclosures during operation. When installed inside an enclosure, VCI emitters continuously release protective vapor that safeguards sensitive components even while equipment remains powered or in active service. This makes VCI especially effective for electronics exposed to humidity, condensation, or corrosive industrial environments.
Importantly, this vapor-phase protection does not interfere with electrical conductivity, signal integrity, or mechanical performance. Instead, it helps prevent corrosion-related failures that can develop over time.
Protect Electronic Components from Corrosion
Talk with ZERUST® corrosion experts to determine the right VCI packaging or emitter solution for your electronic equipment.
Is VCI Safe for Circuit Boards, Sensors, and Connectors?
Yes. VCI is safe for circuit boards, connectors, relays, and sensors when used as directed.
Because VCI protection works at the molecular level, it does not coat components with oils, greases, or films. This makes it ideal for electronics where cleanliness is critical. In addition, properly engineered VCI formulations do not promote short circuits, residue buildup, or contact resistance.
Does VCI Leave Residue on Electronic Components?
No. VCI does not leave harmful residue on electronic components.
Once the packaging is opened, the protective VCI molecules naturally desorb and dissipate into the atmosphere. As a result, parts remain clean, dry, and ready for immediate use without wiping or additional cleaning. This characteristic makes VCI especially valuable for electronics that require immediate installation or testing.
Test Data and Standards Supporting VCI and Electronics Compatibility
VCI performance with electronic components is validated through extensive laboratory testing and real-world field use. These evaluations typically include:
- Corrosion protection testing under controlled humidity and temperature conditions
- Electrical performance verification before and after VCI exposure
- Long-term storage and shipment simulations
Together, these tests confirm that VCI and electronic components are compatible and reliable in demanding environments.
Common Applications for VCI with Electronic Components
Manufacturers use VCI packaging to protect electronics in many industries, including:
- Control panels and electrical enclosures
- Industrial instrumentation and automation equipment
- Sensors, relays, and connectors
- Power distribution and monitoring systems
- Export-packed electronic assemblies
In each case, VCI protection helps prevent corrosion during storage, transport, and extended downtime.
Best Practices When Using VCI with Electronics
To maximize performance and reliability, follow these best practices:
- Use the correct VCI product type and quantity for the enclosure size
- Seal packages tightly to maintain vapor concentration
- Avoid sealing in standing water or excessive moisture
- Allow temperature-stabilized components to cool before packaging
- Minimize unnecessary package openings
Following these steps ensures fast VCI activation and consistent corrosion protection.
VCI and electronic components work together safely and effectively. By preventing corrosion without leaving residue or interfering with performance, VCI packaging helps extend service life, reduce failures, and protect sensitive electronic equipment throughout storage and shipment.
Find the Right VCI Solution for Electronics
Whether you need VCI packaging, emitters, or corrosion testing support, ZERUST® can help protect electronic components throughout storage and operation.
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.
ZAK-M22 Vapor Capsules are portable VCI capsules containing proven ZERUST® VCI technology, used to protect metals in hard-to-reach areas of control panels, electrical cabinets, or any other enclosed spaces from corrosion. Each capsule has a QR code printed on the label to facilitate scheduling its replacement schedule.
ICT® Plastabs® are thin, light, rigid polyethylene VCI emitter plastic tabs that are made with ZERUST® Vapor Corrosion Inhibiting (VCI) technology. Their small, thin shape makes Plastabs® perfect for protecting critical surfaces within narrow or hard-to-reach areas of electronics or parts of equipment or as a supplement to other ZERUST® VCI packaging products for added protection.
