Desicorr VpCI Desiccant Technology

August 16, 2019
Desicorr VpCI Desiccant Technology

Among Cortec’s wide variety of corrosion inhibiting solutions is Desicorr VpCI desiccant technology, whose synergistic action between desiccant and vapor-phase corrosion Inhibitors provides enhanced corrosion protection. Desicorr VpCI pouches are specially designed two-sided pouches containing a unique combination of desiccant and vapor phase corrosion inhibitors (VpCI). These pouches are suitable for protecting packaged ferrous and nonferrous metals from corrosion.

Unlike conventional desiccants, the pouches provide multimetal protection for aluminum, carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, brass, galvanized steel, silicon steel and solder.

The dual function of the Desicorr VpCI pouches reduces moisture in the air (desiccant action) and provides multiple-metal protection (VpCI action) within a package. In essence, the desiccant action allows the VpCI to have free access to the surface of the metal, without competition from moisture on the metal surface.

VpCI action protects recessed and inaccessible surfaces and continues to provide corrosion protection even when the desiccant is fully spent. VpCI is self-replenishing to provide ongoing protection after a package is opened and resealed; the protective VpCI layer does not need removal. Pouches are extremely easy to use and can be easily inserted manually or automatically into packages.

Desicorr VpCI is designed to protect products, components, or assemblies when packaged in corrugated boxes, plastic wrap or bags, and wood or metal containers. Successful usages include completed assemblies, parts, components, motors, mechanical controls, precision machined or stamped parts, marine and commercial electronic equipment, electrical equipment, and tools.

Dessicorr VpCI pouches are commercially equivalent to MIL-D-3464E, Type I and Type II and provide multiple-metal protection. They are available in both windowed and non-windowed versions (NW). The windowed version contains some indicator spheres that will change color from yellow to green when the desiccant is fully spent. No degreasing or cleaning of the protected part is required.

VCI Film Comparison:
Cortec’s customer manufactures springs and small automotive components. After manufacturing and processing, automotive parts are placed in VCI bags to prevent corrosion during storage and transport. Cortec Laboratories was asked to test the effectiveness of their current VCI bags and desiccant against Cortec’s VpCI-126 bags and DesiCorr. A loosely wrapped bag of VpCI-126 and a 1/6 unit of DesiCorr showed excellent corrosion resistance in ASTM D-173 conditions at 120 hours. No signs of corrosion were seen on the surfaces of any rings tested with VpCI-126 and Desicorr. Rings protected by yellow VCI film and silica desiccant appeared in adequate condition at 120 hours of testing in ASTM D-1735. Closer inspection of rings from this group showed small signs of corrosion starting on the top surface of the rings.

Related Glossary Terms

  • corrosion resistance

    corrosion resistance

    Ability of an alloy or material to withstand rust and corrosion. These are properties fostered by nickel and chromium in alloys such as stainless steel.