The degradation of metal due to exposure to its surrounding environment has long been a formidable challenge, costing the building, transportation and manufacturing industries billions of dollars annually and posing serious safety risks. The annual cost of steel corrosion alone is estimated to be over $2.5 trillion globally, according to a 2016 study by National Association of Corrosion Engineers. The report found that implementing corrosion prevention best practices could result in global savings of between 15-35% of the cost of damage, or between $375-875 billion. Beyond the financial burden, corrosion compromises the safety and integrity of critical infrastructure, with the potential to lead to dangerous incidents, near misses and costly shutdowns.

While corrosion cannot be entirely eliminated, it can be significantly mitigated through the use of anticorrosive coatings. These essential coatings provide protection by forming a barrier between metal surfaces and corrosive environments, and can be enhanced with increased barrier protection, sacrificial protection and inhibitive protection.

A cornerstone of durable industrial coatings

Anticorrosive pigments are essential components in protective coatings, safeguarding metal surfaces from deteriorating. By inhibiting corrosion, anticorrosive coatings extend the lifespan of structures and machinery.

A key advantage of specialty anticorrosive pigments is their ability to enhance coating performance with fewer layers. Traditional coatings often require multiple coats to achieve the desired protection, leading to increased material usage and higher costs. Anticorrosive pigments mean fewer coats are needed to provide better protection. This reduces paint usage, energy consumption and labor costs, making them a more sustainable option.

Meeting the growing demand for durable, eco-friendly coatings

The increasing use of anticorrosive pigments is driven by the growing demand for durable, eco-friendly coatings that meet stricter environmental regulations and performance standards. Key trends include the shift toward zinc-free alternatives, the development of fewer-layer coating systems, and a focus on sustainability by reducing the environmental impact of coatings. As industries seek to extend the lifespan of their assets while minimizing costs and environmental footprint, anticorrosive pigments are becoming an essential component of modern coating systems.

For more than 50 years, Vibrantz has provided a diverse range of non-toxic, universal anticorrosive pigments. Our Nubirox series offers sustainable solutions designed to significantly extend the lifespan of metals and reduce long-term costs. From traditional zinc-phosphate pigments to high-performing modified phosphates and specialty zinc-free products, our pigments are compatible with both solvent- or water-based systems.

ProductCompositionDescription
Nubirox N2Standard zinc phosphateFor use in general purpose anticorrosive coatings
Nubirox SPSpecial particle zinc phosphateZinc phosphate with high specific surface area that improves the efficiency of standard zinc phosphate
Nubirox 102Organophilized zinc phosphate and zinc molybdateZinc-based pigment with high performance features and high compatibility in waterborne and solvent borne systems; suitable for one coat medium gloss DTM applications
Nubirox 106Organophilized zinc phosphate and zinc molybdateZinc-based pigment with maximum efficiency. Excellent performance in waterborne and solvent borne systems; suitable for thin film applications
Nubirox 213Iron phosphate and zinc phosphateZinc-based pigment for use in alkyd and epoxy-polyamide primers
Nubirox 301Calcium strontium phosphosilicateNon-zinc-based product for replacing zinc based anticorrosive pigments; suitable for glossy DTM coatings thanks to low impact on gloss
Nubirox 302Organophilized calcium strontium phosphosilicateNon-zinc-based product with wider binder compatibility and enhanced performance;
protection of different metal substrates, specifically galvanized
Vibrantz Nubirox product offerings

Vibrantz expands anticorrosive capacity at Romania facility

As part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability, Vibrantz recently expanded its production capabilities for anticorrosive pigments at our plant in Doicesti, Romania. This project will double our global anticorrosive pigment specialties production and enable us to meet the growing demand for high-quality, environmentally friendly pigments that extend the life of industrial coatings and reduce the overall environmental impact.

We have successfully produced our zinc-free Nubirox 301 and 302 products at the new facility since opening a few months ago and are well underway to ramp up production. This expansion is driven by our commitment to meet growing global demand for high-quality, zinc-free anticorrosives, ensuring we continue to deliver cutting-edge solutions for corrosion protection across industries.” – Miguel Angel de la Fuente, Plant Manager, Romania

Durability meets sustainability through optimal production

Anticorrosive pigments play a crucial role in promoting sustainable coatings practices. By enhancing coating durability, they reduce repainting frequency, thereby conserving resources and minimizing waste.

Our expanded production capacity in Romania allows for more efficient pigment production. We can now produce various pigments simultaneously, reducing total waste, cleaning times and water usage. This aligns with Vibrantz’s commitment to continuously seek ways to improve our processes and become a sustainable, world-class organization.

As the demand for sustainable and durable coatings continues to grow, our expanded production capabilities in Romania position us to better serve our customers. We are proud to contribute to a more sustainable future through our innovative anticorrosive pigments.

Explore our range of anticorrosive pigments and discover how they can enhance the durability and sustainability of your products.

Patricia Perez

Product Manager, Color Solutions

Patricia Perez

Product Manager, Color Solutions

Patricia Pérez has over 26 years of technical and product management experience in pigments. She started her career at Colores Hispania as a pigment application technician in plastics and coatings. After gaining experience in paint technology, she served as the corrosion inhibitor product manager at Ferro and has been a product manager at Vibrantz since 2023. She has a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and a master’s degree in paint technology from the University of Barcelona.