Analysis of the Application of Ethyl Silicate in Inorganic Zinc-rich Coatings | Ecopower Materials
Why Polysilicic Acid Ethyl Ester （TEOS) is the Optimal Choice for Inorganic Zinc-Rich Coatings
Inorganic zinc-rich coatings (also known as inorganic silicate zinc-rich coatings) have been widely used since the 1950s due to their exceptional corrosion resistance, weather resistance, and thermal stability. Among the critical components, polysilicic acid ethyl esters, particularly Polyethyl Silicate-40, stand out as the most suitable binders and film-forming agents.
1.Pre-Polymerized Structure for Controlled Hydrolysis
Polyethyl Silicate-40 is a partially hydrolyzed prepolymer of ethyl silicate. Its pre-polymerized structure reduces sensitivity to environmental factors (e.g., humidity, temperature), ensuring stable hydrolysis rates during coating preparation. This minimizes risks of premature gelation and enhances storage stability compared to monomeric ethyl silicate.
2. Efficient Film Formation and Dense Coating Structure
Upon hydrolysis, polysilicic acid ethyl ester generates reactive silanol groups (Si-OH) that chemically bond with zinc particles and steel substrates. This forms a continuous zinc-silicate-iron network, reducing porosity and improving mechanical strength. The prepolymer backbone accelerates cross-linking, ensuring uniform zinc dispersion and robust adhesion.
3. Superior Compatibility and Construction Adaptability
Polyethyl Silicate-40 exhibits excellent compatibility with solvents like ethanol, butanol, and butyl acetate. A mixed solvent system balances evaporation rates and hydrolysis stability, optimizing coating flow and drying efficiency. Its moderate viscosity in zinc powder slurries (Component B) prevents sedimentation, ensuring even zinc distribution during application.
4. Exceptional Durability in Harsh Environments
- High-Temperature Resistance: The silicate network withstands temperatures exceeding 400°C, ideal for tanks, chimneys, and industrial equipment.
- Weather and Corrosion Resistance: Resistant to UV, salt spray, and moisture, making it suitable for marine engineering and coastal structures.
- Post-Curing Densification: Over 1-2 months, CO₂ reaction products fill pores, enhancing coating density and compatibility with topcoats (e.g., epoxy, polyurethane).
5. Cost-Effectiveness and Industrial Scalability
As a supplier of raw materials for inorganic anti-corrosion coatings, Ecopower offers the ZincShield series ethyl silicate solutions:
Polyethyl Silicate-40 offers a broad processing window, reducing production complexity and costs. Its prepolymer structure eliminates the need for high-purity monomers, making it economically viable for large-scale industrial applications.
| Product | Chemical Name | CAS No | Content% |
| Crosil-40 | Ethyl silicate | 11099-06-2 68412-37-3 | 40-42% |
| Croisle-28 | Tetraethyl Orthosilicate | 78-10-4 | 28-31% |