ITD Program: Galvanizing Compound for Galvanized Steel Refurbishment (Galvatech 2000)

Program Summary

Rust-Anode Primer offers an innovative solution for refurbishing galvanized steel, ensuring prolonged cathodic protection. Its unique Moisture-Cured Urethane-modified polymer formulation balances zinc and resin levels to maintain structural integrity and protection against corrosion. Recognized for its ease of application in various conditions, including high humidity and low temperatures, this coating simplifies surface preparation and significantly reduces maintenance costs. Approved by the Canadian Quebec DOT for major infrastructure projects, Galvatech 2000 stands out for its performance in preserving galvanized steel structures.

Contact Information

Maxim Dube, Technical Director
(819) 266-9615
1-888-743-2046 ext.103
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Detailed Description of Program

Describe your product/technology:
The Galvatech Galvanizing Zinc Compound Rust-Anode Primer stands as a crucial solution for refurbishing galvanized steel surfaces, preserving the fundamental cathodic protection that galvanized assets offer. This advanced compound utilizes a Moisture-Cured Urethane-modified polymer, skillfully striking a balance between the zinc content in the dry film and the resin quantity. Maintaining this equilibrium is vital for optimal cathodic protection from the zinc while preserving the mechanical properties provided by the resin. An excess of zinc compromises mechanical strength, while an excess of resin diminishes cathodic protection.

Why is it innovative?
The innovation extends to keeping the assets protected by cathodic protection instead of encapsulating the remaining zinc with standard industrial paints that provide only barrier protection. Galvatech2000 Rust-Anode Primer has been approved for galvanized steel and metalizing refurbishment by the Canadian Quebec DOT since 2019, with notable success in major bridge refurbishments and electric infrastructures. This technology minimizes surface preparation requirements, offering a cost-effective, one-coat system applied over existing galvanizing. The balanced formulation, addressing challenges in aging galvanized steel, reduces the need for time-consuming sandblasting surface preparation.

Its moisture-cured nature allows for application in environments with up to 99% relative humidity and temperature as low as 23°F, which is especially beneficial in Northern and highly humid conditions where galvanized steel tends to weather more rapidly. This single-component product, reducing mixing errors, achieves touch-dry status in less than 3-5 hours, contingent on relative humidity and temperature, positioning this innovative solution as an efficient, high-performance method for galvanized steel refurbishment.

The incorporation of advanced polymers ensures superior adhesion without the need for sandblasting, reducing environmental impact. The compound’s durability excels under ISO 12944 C5 VH exposure conditions, enduring constant humidity in saline environments. Remarkably, the film weathers like galvanizing, forming zinc oxide instead of peeling off like traditional paint coatings. It reduces future maintenance costs and minimizes environmental contaminants, reinforcing the Rust-Anode Primer as a standout technology in galvanized steel refurbishment.

What would a field demonstration entail?
A field demonstration of the Galvatech Galvanizing Compound involves applying it to a representative section of weathered galvanized steel, showing a beginning of iron oxide bleeding through the metallic coating. The process begins with quick surface preparation, cleaning contaminants and loose rust by water jetting or other suitable methods, with possible manual surface preparation for localized corrosion. Subsequently, the product is applied, preferably by spraying but possibly by brushing or rolling, showcasing its ease of application and ability to adhere to the substrate, forming a protective layer. The field demonstration emphasizes the ease of use, reduced time consumption, and long-term protective benefits for galvanized steel structures.

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