Chemicals and pollutants

Chemicals and pollutants can create an aggressive atmosphere which can reduce the performance life of a pre-finished steel product not suited to that environment. They can range from detergents and solvents used for cleaning to typical exterior industrial atmospheres which may contain pollutants such as sulphurous and nitrous gases and also traces of airborne solvents. As well as accelerating corrosion, they have the effect of attacking the chemical bonds which make up the paint polymers, making them less effective as barriers and reducing their lifetime performance.

Emissions from buildings such as swimming pools, chemical fertiliser plants or animal housing may be vented from roof stacks and then condense on the roof resulting in a local aggressive environment and possibly a requirement for earlier re-painting. Emissions from buildings close by can be almost as damaging and should be considered when deciding what pre-finished steel product to specify.

Through over 40 years of experience, Corus have researched, tested and developed the resistance of Colorcoat® products to a wide array of chemicals and common substances. Corus are able to supply general information on the chemical resistance of particular products, but for projects where there are specific requirements the specifier is strongly advised to consult the Colorcoat Connection® helpline for more detailed advice.