1) Enclosed space matters
VCIs are most effective when the protected part is inside a reasonably sealed package (bag, wrap, box, crate liner). Free air exchange reduces concentration.
Product Specialty Additives
Corrosion Inhibitor (Vapor Phase)
Vapor-phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI) used to protect metal parts in enclosed packaging during storage and shipment. Designed for export packing, spare parts, machined components, and interleaving applications where oiling is undesirable.
Packaging: drums / IBC / bulk (as applicable)
Documentation: SDS / TDS; COA on request
Lead time depends on lane & volume
Commercial focus: reduced rust claims, rework, and downtime
Clean handling: protection without heavy oils (system dependent)
Export lanes: container humidity and long dwell-time support
Commercial overview
Corrosion during storage and transport is often driven by humidity cycling, salt exposure, and long dwell time in non-conditioned environments. Vapor phase corrosion inhibitors (VCIs) are used when you need protection inside a package—without fully coating parts in oil or grease. When specified correctly, a VCI program can reduce rust-related claims, rework, and polishing costs while supporting repeatable export packing.
- Lower cost-in-use vs rework, scrap, and downtime (application dependent)
- Practical for mixed part geometries (cavities, recesses, blind holes) inside enclosures
- Supports scalable packaging workflows for export and inter-plant transfers
- Helps reduce direct-contact rust from condensation during shipping (system dependent)
How vapor phase protection works
VCIs protect metal by releasing inhibiting molecules into an enclosed space. These molecules migrate through the package atmosphere and adsorb onto metal surfaces, forming a thin protective layer that helps reduce corrosion.
2) Vapor migration
Inhibitor vapor travels to exposed surfaces—including hard-to-reach areas—then forms an adsorbed layer that limits corrosion reactions.
3) Coverage + time
Time-to-protect depends on enclosure volume, temperature, and airflow. Required dosage depends on package size and target storage duration.
Clean unpacking (system dependent)
Many VCI approaches aim to avoid heavy oily residues. If parts must be paint-ready or assembly-ready, note this so we can match the right grade and method.
Humidity control
VCIs can be combined with desiccants and barrier packaging to manage condensation risks—especially in sea freight and container cycling.
Metal + alloy sensitivity
Metal type influences inhibitor selection (carbon steel vs stainless vs copper alloys, etc.). Provide your material list for correct matching.
Engineering note: Corrosion protection performance depends on system design (package seal, dosage, handling, and environment). Always confirm grade-specific guidance via TDS and your internal specs.
Applications
Typical usage patterns. Share your process and constraints and we’ll align the correct VCI grade and delivery format.
- Export packaging for metal parts (crates, boxes, bags, liners)
- Storage protection for machined components, spares, bearings, fasteners
- Interleaving protection for steel sheets/plates and compatible applications
- Short- to medium-term storage where oils/greases are undesirable (system dependent)
Target industries
Industrial maintenance, metalworking, OEM spares, automotive components, machinery export
Typical metals
Carbon steel/cast iron are common; other metals vary by grade. Provide alloy list for confirmation.
Packaging integration
Use with barrier films, VCI paper/liners, emitters, and/or desiccants depending on risk level and duration.
Technical details
VCIs exist in different chemistries and delivery formats. Selection depends on metal type, enclosure volume, protection duration, and whether contact with plastics, elastomers, electronics, or coatings is expected. Request the grade-specific TDS for your application.
Type
Vapor phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI), grade dependent chemistry (often amine/carboxylate families; confirm per grade)
Mechanism
Vapor migration + adsorption creates a protective molecular layer on metal surfaces in enclosed packages
Delivery formats
Concentrates, powders, or compatible carriers for emitters, coatings, or packaging integration (grade dependent)
Selection framework (practical engineering)
Provide these inputs and we’ll recommend a grade + dosage approach appropriate for your packaging method.
| Input | Examples | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Metal / alloy | Carbon steel, cast iron, galvanized, copper alloys, aluminum | Different metals require different inhibitor compatibility |
| Package enclosure | Bag/liner, box, crate, cabinet, drum | Seal quality controls achievable vapor concentration |
| Free volume | Dimensions, headspace, part fill factor | Dosage is commonly linked to volume of enclosed air |
| Duration | 30/90/180+ day storage + transit | Longer duration may require barrier packaging and higher protection design |
| Environment | High humidity, sea freight, salt air, temperature cycling | Condensation risk and chloride exposure change protection needs |
| Residue / downstream | Paint-ready, assembly, electronics proximity, elastomers | Controls grade choice and whether cleaning/removal is required |
Note: “Typical dosage” is highly dependent on enclosure design and grade. We provide grade-specific guidance in the TDS and on the quotation package.
Compatibility notes
If parts contact plastics, elastomers, foam, or electronics, disclose materials to confirm compatibility.
Handling & storage
Store sealed, protect from moisture ingress, and follow SDS/TDS. Shelf life and storage temperature are grade dependent.
Documentation
SDS + TDS on request; COA available for delivered batches on request (by lane and destination requirements).
Typical specifications & formats
Values depend on grade and customer requirements. Vapor phase inhibitors may be supplied as concentrates or powders intended for packaging integration. Confirm exact grade details on quotation.
Product type
Vapor phase corrosion inhibitor (VCI), chemistry grade dependent
Form
Liquid concentrate or powder (grade dependent)
Use model
Enclosed-package protection via vapor action; may be paired with barrier packaging and desiccants
Packaging
Drums / IBC / bulk (as applicable)
Documentation
SDS + TDS; COA on request
Selection inputs
Metal type, enclosure volume, storage duration, environment, and residue/compatibility requirements
Specifications may vary depending on batch, origin, and packaging selection.
FAQ
Fast answers for packaging teams, QA, and procurement.
Does VCI work in open air?
VCI performance typically relies on an enclosed space. High air exchange reduces vapor concentration and protection effectiveness.
Which metals are compatible?
Carbon steel/cast iron are common targets. Other metals depend on chemistry and grade. Provide your alloy list for confirmation.
Will parts need cleaning?
Many programs aim for clean unpacking, but residue and removability are grade- and method-dependent. Tell us if parts must be paint-ready or assembly-ready.
How do I size dosage?
Dosage is typically related to enclosure volume, seal quality, and duration. Share crate/bag size and target days/months for grade-specific guidance.
Is it enough for sea freight?
Sea freight often needs a layered approach: VCI + barrier packaging + humidity control. We can recommend a packaging stack once we know your lane and duration.
What documents are available?
SDS and TDS on request; COA can be provided for delivered batches (by lane and destination requirements).
Request quotation
Get pricing, lead time, and a recommended VCI grade aligned to your packaging method and target duration. If you have an internal corrosion test method or packing specification, mention it in the inquiry.
Fast quote inputs
Metal type + packaging method + enclosure volume + duration + destination = accurate offer.
Procurement planning
Share monthly volumes to optimize packaging sets (drums vs IBC) and reduce changeovers.
Export coordination
We can support documentation, labeling, and repeat shipments based on your lane requirements.