VCI Technology

ARMOR VCI Poly Bag Graphic

Our “Secret Formula” for Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor

Volatile or Vapor phase corrosion inhibitors (VCI/VPI) are a class of chemical compounds that emit rust inhibiting vapors into an enclosed air space to prevent corrosion on a metal surface. Armor Protective Packaging® products utilize our proprietary VCI Nanotechnology™, essential to keeping your shipments, stored items and even in-process metals corrosion free for years of protection.

How ARMOR Proprietary VCI Nanotechnology Works

ARMOR has engineered highly specialized corrosion inhibitors based on ionic salts. Our packaging materials are infused with corrosion inhibitors, carrying them into the packaging environment. In the presence of moisture the salts dissolve to form ions, permeating the packaging environment with corrosion inhibitors. The inhibiting ions are attracted to and deposit on the metallic surfaces displacing moisture in the process and re-associating to form a stable nanocoating only a few molecules thick.

So what is nanotechnology specifically? According to U.S. National Nanotechnology Initiative, Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at the nanoscale (dimensions between 1 and 100 nanometers), where unique phenomena enable novel applications.

How thick is an ARMOR VCI layer on the surface of a metal?

Thickness ranges between 4 – 6 nanometers (2 to 3 molecules thick)

Compare this to:

  • Sheet of copy paper = 100,000 nanometers
  • Primer paint coating = 20,000 nanometers
  • ARMOR Dry Coat™ RP = 800 nanometers
VCI thickness comparison

VCI Nanotechnology

The adsorption process is not instantaneous. It requires time to form the inhibitor layer.

  • As fast as 6 hours
  • As long as 6 days
  • Practical application: 20 to 30 hours
  • ARMOR VCIs utilize “mixed inhibitor technology”.
  • They are formulated to saturate the vapor space quickly and have a lasting effect

The Benefits of ARMOR VCI Nanotechnology

  • Self-adjusts to the environment (temperature & humidity)
  • Migrates to distant metallic surfaces and recessed areas VCI
  • Molecular film does not alter any important metal properties
  • Vapors replenish inside the contained package
ARMOR product illustration

Watch These ARMOR Videos & Learn More about VCI