Session: Next-Generation Coatings: Predictive Strategies for Service Life, Durability, and Sustainable Performance
Accelerated Corrosion Testing of Metallic Zinc Coatings (C2026-00068)
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM Central
Location: 372 BC
Earn .5 PDH
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Accelerated corrosion testing of coatings is widespread but has a poor track record for predicting real world performance. Results of accelerated lab tests often show an inverse relationship to the actual field performance of coatings. This is especially true for metallic zinc coatings. Metallic zinc coatings provide unparalleled atmospheric corrosion protection for steel since the zinc acts first as a barrier coating, and secondly as a sacrificial anode. The ability to form an insoluble zinc patina on the surface of the zinc coating allows for slow, uniform corrosion of the coating. Using weather and air quality parameters as data inputs, the corrosion rate of zinc can be computed for specific locations. Due to the uniform rate of corrosion, long term performance of zinc coatings can be predicted. Zinc metal has a low carbon footprint, and the excellent corrosion resistance has direct consequences for structure longevity and low life cycle costs. Measured corrosion rates for zinc metal in specific service environments provide the best prediction of long-term corrosion protection performance of metallic zinc coatings.
