Which Anticorrosion Primer Should I Choose for My Harsh Application?

December 7, 2021

Some Cortec® Micro-Corrosion Inhibiting Coatingscan be used for the same applications, but they have different characteristics that make them more or less attractive for the specific job. This news alert helps you differentiate between VpCI®- 395 and VpCI®-396—two great primers that can be applied in immersed structures (e.g., tanks) and harsh indoor or outdoor conditions. Here are some key considerations to guide your selection.

To Mix or Not to Mix?
VpCI®-395 is a 2K (two-component) primer that must be mixed onsite before application. This allows crosslinking of the chemistry for enhanced coating durability. However, it adds an extra step to the painting process, and any leftover paint has to be thrown away. VpCI®-396, in contrast, is more convenient as a 1K (one-component) primer because it does not have to be mixed, and the remaining paint can be saved for later by putting the lid back on the can.

Water-Based or Solvent-Based?
There are also the pros and cons of using a water-based coating vs. a solvent-based coating. VpCI®-395, for example, is water-based and contains an extremely low VOC (0.2 lbs/gal [24 g/L])—good for both users and the environment. Cleanup is also much easier by using water instead of paint thinner. On the other hand, a solventbased coating like VpCI®-396 can be applied under a wider range of temperatures than water-based coatings, and the presence of some humidity during the curing stage can be an advantage. Many times, the environmental regulations will determine the type of coating to use. The chart below offers an at-a-glance summary of some of the key differences between these two coatings.

VpCI®-395 VpCI®-396
Water-Based Epoxy Solvent-Based Urethane
2-Component 1-Component
Fast Dry (Dry to Touch: 20-30 minutes) Slower Dry (Dry to Touch: 2-3 hours)
Lower Gloss (15-25) Higher Gloss (30-50)

The final choice is up to you, but if you need further assistance choosing which of these Micro-Corrosion Inhibiting Coatingsis best for your application, don’t hesitate to contact us: https://www.corteccoatings.com/contact-us-2/

Keywords: corrosion inhibitor coatings, protective coatings, anticorrosion paint, moisture cure urethane, epoxy coatings, tank coatings, chemical resistant coatings, water based coatings, Cortec, VpCI

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