What Are Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs) and How Do They Prevent Rust?
Protecting metal parts from rust and corrosion is critical in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. That’s where Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs) come in. In this post, we’ll break down what VCIs are, how they work, and why they’re a superior rust prevention solution for long-term storage and shipping.
What Are Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors?
Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors (VCIs) are advanced chemical compounds that release protective vapors into enclosed spaces. These vapors form an invisible molecular barrier on metal surfaces, blocking corrosion-causing elements like moisture, oxygen, and salt.
Unlike traditional coatings, VCIs protect without direct contact. They work in vapor, liquid, and interface phases, and are effective on a variety of metals. They can reach recessed areas, complex parts and hard-to-access surfaces—something traditional coatings and oils often can't do.
VCIs can be incorporated into many different carriers, including oils, solvents, and water-based formulations, as well as papers, plastics, coatings.
How Do VCIs Work to Prevent Rust?
Rust forms when metal reacts with oxygen and moisture in a process called oxidation. Cortec’s VpCIs® (Vapor Phase Corrosion Inhibitors) stop this reaction by forming a molecular barrier that protects metal surfaces—even in hard-to-reach areas.
VpCI molecules:
- Vaporize filling the enclosed spaces
- Condense onto metal surfaces creating a thin, invisible molecular barrier.
- Prevent the start of corrosion repelling moisture and corrosive agents, as the film barrier re-heals and self replenishes through further deposition of the vapor.
As long as VpCI molecules are present in the environment, the barrier continues to regenerate—ensuring long-term corrosion protection even if part of the layer is disturbed.
VpCIs are also mixed inhibitors, meaning they shield both anodic and cathodic corrosion sites.
Who Uses VCIs?
VCI technology is used in corrosion-sensitive industries such as:
- Automotive manufacturing: Protect parts during transit and storage.
- Aerospace and defense: Prevent corrosion in mission-critical components.
- Oil and gas: Shield metal equipment in harsh environments.
- Metalworking and fabrication: Safeguard inventory, tools and machinery.
- Export packaging and logistics: Keep corrosion at bay during overseas transport.
VCIs are trusted for preserving the integrity of metal parts throughout the supply chain.
Best Selling VCI Products
We offer a complete line of industry-proven rust prevention products from Cortec® Corporation:
- VCI Paper: Ideal for wrapping and layering between metal parts.
- VCI Bags: Great for long-term storage or shipping
- VCI Emitters: Compact devices for electrical boxes or tool cabinets
- Rust Preventive Coatings and VCI Sprays: For coating or dipping metal surfaces where direct contact is needed.
Sustainable and Safe Rust Prevention
Cortec®'s VpCI® formulations are designed to effectively prevent rust while considering both safety and environmental impact. Cortec® products are:
- Non-toxic: Safe during use.
- Free from harmful chemicals: Formulated without nitrites.
- Recyclable: VCI Paper and Plastic can be recycled, reducing waste when disposed of responsibly.
VCI products minimize the need for messy, hazardous coatings, offering a practical and safe method of rust prevention.
Why Use Vapor Corrosion Inhibitors?
VCIs help businesses:
- Reduce corrosion-related losses
- Extend equipment life
- Lower maintenance costs
- Achieve a cleaner, safer protection.
Explore VCI Rust Prevention Products Today
Start protecting your metal assets with proven solutions. Check out Cortec®'s Corporation line of rust prevention products and find the right solution for your operation.