YOU ASK AND WE ANSWER—THIS COLUMN IS DEVOTED TO ANSWERING OUR CUSTOMERS’ MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What it the difference between desiccant and VCI?

VCI products and desiccants work in a completely different way. ARMOR VCI prevents corrosion by an electro-chemical process that forms a thin molecular layer of protection on a metal surface. This layer of protection is microscopic and does not alter the metal in any way, nor require removal of the VCI after being removed from the package.

A desiccant is simply a moisture adsorber. Desiccants adsorb moisture but do not satisfactorily protect a metal surface from other electrolytes that cause corrosion such as oxygen. Good quality desiccants adsorb (yes, with a d) versus absorb (spelled with a b) moisture meaning after a desiccant draws or collects moisture to the packet, it holds it inside by physical bonds. Absorption is when a substance becomes chemically integrated into another. Think of drinking a cold glass of water- the water becomes part of you, you are absorbing it. For adsorption, (the chemistry desiccant utilizes) think of that same glass of water spilled onto a table cloth-it is adsorbed into the fibers until heat or warm air dries out the cloth. Because many applications have moisture as well as air, salt or other contaminants to deal with, ARMOR recommends a combination of our VCI with a good quality desiccant.

When using a desiccant, we recommend a Tyvek pouch as this material is strong and durable and will not transfer moisture to the metal via the packaging, which is a concern if you use a Kraft paper packaging.

Contact ARMOR’s Customer Service at (800) 365-1117 for additional information or to place an order for any of ARMOR’s corrosion management products.