Ana Juraga discusses the company’s advanced VpCI® and MCI® technologies, highlighting their effectiveness in protecting stainless steel from corrosion. She also shares insights on Cortec’s expansion, biobased solutions, and commitment to sustainability in corrosion control.

How does Cortec’s VpCI® and MCI® technology cater specifically to stainless steel applications?

VCI/VpCI Technology: VCI is the generic term for “volatile corrosion inhibitor,” “vapor corrosion inhibitor,” or “Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor,” technology that simplifies corrosion protection and is ideal for keeping enclosed void spaces such as packages, equipment internals, or structural metal cavities free of corrosion. We have trademarked our Cortec® brand of VCIs under the name VpCI® to help ensure our customers are getting the premium VCI products that are trusted globally. The VpCI® molecules diffuse from areas of high concentration to low concentration reaching all areas of the enclosure. These molecules are excellent for protection of hard-to-reach areas. VpCI’s are attracted to metallic surfaces where they condense to provide protection. They are based on amine carboxylate chemistry. 

Cortec’s VpCI® and MCI® technologies offer several benefits for stainless steel applications: VpCI® technology provides long-term corrosion protection for stainless steel in various environments, including indoor storage, outdoor exposure, and shipping.   The technology is safe for stainless steel: VpCI® is compatible with stainless steel and does not cause pitting or other forms of localized corrosion. Cortec’s products are often biodegradable and non-toxic, making them a sustainable choice for corrosion protection for stainless steel surfaces.   

MCI® (Migrating Corrosion Inhibitor): Cortec® patented MCI® (Migrating Corrosion Inhibitor) technology protects reinforcing metal in concrete from corrosion. Often, corroding rebar in deteriorating concrete is the cause of costly repairs, financial losses and injuries. MCI® greatly extends the service life of new and existing structures by proactively delaying the onset of corrosion and keeping rates low after initiation. MCI® technology maintains structural integrity, rehabilitates vulnerable structures, and alleviate environmental concerns. This technology is compatible with stainless steel and does not cause any adverse effects. MCI® products are often biodegradable and non-toxic, making them a sustainable choice for corrosion protection. By choosing Cortec’s VpCI® and MCI® technologies, businesses can ensure the long-term protection of their stainless steel assets, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

What are the key challenges in corrosion control for stainless steel, and how does Cortec address them?

Even though stainless steel is highly corrosion-resistant , it is not immune to corrosion. Several factors can compromise its protective oxide layer, leading to various forms of corrosion such as:

• Pitting Corrosion: This occurs when localized corrosion attacks the passive film, forming small pits that can grow and penetrate the metal.
• Crevice Corrosion: This type of corrosion happens in confined spaces, such as under gaskets or bolts, where oxygen depletion and chloride ion concentration can lead to localized attack.
• Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC): Occurs when a combination of tensile stress and a corrosive environment leads to cracking of the metal.

Cortec’s VpCI technologies successfully address these challenges by releasing vapor-phase inhibitors that form a protective film on the metal surface, preventing corrosion. They offer long-term protection, even in harsh environments and penetrate into crevices and tight spaces, providing comprehensive protection. 

Can you share insights into your biobased and biodegradable corrosion inhibitors for stainless steel industries?

Cortec offers a range of biobased and biodegradable corrosion inhibitors that can be used for stainless steel applications. These products are formulated to provide effective protection while minimizing environmental impact. Cortec’s VpCI® and MCI® technologies are available in biobased formulations. These products utilize renewable resources and offer long-lasting corrosion protection for stainless steel.  Some of the products that can be beneficial for stainless steel protection are: 

• EcoClean® Biodegradable Scale and Rust Remover: This product is designed to remove scale and rust from stainless steel surfaces. It is biodegradable and contains powerful corrosion inhibitors to protect the cleaned metal. 
• EcoLine® Biobased Rust Preventative is a biobased alternative to petroleum-based rust preventatives. It offers excellent protection for stainless steel components during storage and transportation. 
• Eco-Corr Film® enables excellent contact, barrier, and vapor phase corrosion protection for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, including stainless steel.    

These biobased and biodegradable solutions offer several advantages for the stainless steel industry such as reduced environmental impact and improved sustainability while offering the same level of protection as traditional corrosion inhibitors, ensuring the longevity of stainless steel components. Cortec’s biobased and biodegradable corrosion inhibitors enable stainless steel manufacturers to contribute to a more sustainable future while maintaining the integrity of their products. 

How is Cortec expanding its global presence to meet growing demand for stainless steel corrosion solutions?

Cortec is expanding its global presence through several strategies to meet the growing demands with strategic partnerships, increased production capacity, international certifications, brading and more. The company is investing in expanding it’s manufacturing facilities such as its European EcoCortec® plant based in Croatia to meet the increasing demand for its products. Cortec® is very dedicated to research and development and continuous innovation. This includes developing specialized solutions for stainless steel, such as VpCI® products specifically designed to protect stainless steel from corrosion in various environments.  Our team is adapting quickly to industry trends and stays updated on the latest regulations to ensure its products meet the evolving needs of the market. This includes not only adapting to stricter environmental regulations but initiating environmentally friendly approach and developing more sustainable corrosion prevention solutions. Cortec® also invests in marketing campaigns to reach specific industries and regions and familiarize the end user with benefits of using their products and services.  Thanks to its dedicated team and vision of the company founder, Boris Miksic, Cortec® is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for stainless steel corrosion solutions globally and maintain its position as a leader in the industry.

About Cortec® Corporation

Cortec® Corporation is a world leader in corrosion protection technology. The company manufactures, distributes and provides support for application of anti-corrosion products and systems based on the revolutionary Vapor Phase Corrosion Inhibition Technology. Through commitment, hard work, and extensive research and development, Cortec’s founder Boris Miksic pioneered the application and distribution of VpCI® technology into many industries such as oil and gas, military, construction and power and water worldwide to solve their corrosion and preservation challenges. Cortec® is an ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 17025 certified company and produces a full line of multifunctional products that provide huge benefits to the customers, including increased profits, improved product quality and productivity and reduced waste and pollution. Cortec’s solutions are environmentally safe, non-toxic, non-hazardous and free of many harmful chemicals.