AntiCorr® Test Fluids
AntiCorr® is an innovative anti-corrosion coating applied to metals using atmospheric pressure plasma. During this procedure, an organosilicon compound is added to the plasma, which breaks it apart through high-energy excitation.
The resulting fragments are then deposited onto the metal surface, forming a glass-like protective coating. This coating provides excellent corrosion protection and can be tailored to the specific application to achieve optimal results for various materials.
A major advantage of AntiCorr® coating is the selective treatment of components, in which only the desired areas are coated. This approach conserves resources and energy, ensuring protection is delivered exactly where it’s needed most. This technology is particularly beneficial for sensitive alloys such as aluminum, which is frequently used in the automotive industry.
Use of AntiCorr® Test Fluids
- Used to evaluate anti-corrosive coatings such as AntiCorr® on metallic surfaces and to detect coating defects, such as defects or stress cracks which are applied by PlasmaPlus® technology.
- A drop of the test fluid is placed onto the surface. The chemical reaction is always the same and provides information about the coating quality based on its reaction time.
- It works by reducing copper ions in a strongly acidic copper sulfate solution.
- The fluid triggers an electrochemical reaction that leads to the simultaneous reduction and oxidation of metal ions in the acidic solution.
- Results and reaction changes are visible within seconds.
Application & Procedure in the Test Method with AntiCorr® Test Fluid
Comparison of PlasmaPlus®-coated and uncoated aluminum. The test results are evaluated after two minutes by examining gas production and tallying defects within every 1 cm² section, following standard procedures. Another option is to assess various test liquids at different intervals, such as 10, 30, or 60 seconds, and then compare these results to those from untreated samples. Choosing the right test liquid and length of testing can make this process an effective, straightforward method for quality control. (Note: destructive testing method)
1. Application of a drop
Uncoated: Immediate bubble formation; the reaction with the unprotected metal surface begins.
Coated: No change; the protective PlasmaPlus® layer prevents the fluid from penetrating.
2. Increased reaction
Uncoated: Increasing bubble formation indicates strong oxidation of the exposed metal surface, with the color change indicating the reduction of copper as an indicator of the lack of a barrier effect.
Coated: The drop remains unchanged; the protective coating remains intact.
3. Observation of results
Uncoated: Deep black discoloration, significant copper reduction.
Coated: Unchanged drop; the PlasmaPlus® coating provides effective corrosion protection.
The lower the quality of the coating, the faster the copper ions in the fluid will penetrate the base material, creating two distinct effects
- Hydrogen formation: The higher the permeability of the coating and the more defects it has, the more intense the formation of hydrogen bubbles on the surface. They form on the surface.
- Color change: A permeable anti-corrosion coating turns a dark, uniform black color. Discoloration of liquids due to the formation of elemental copper, copper oxides and metal sulfates.
FEATURES &
ADVANTAGES
Reducing Test Time with AntiCorr® Test Fluids
- Fast results: Due to the high reactivity of the copper sulfate solution, test results are visible after just 60 seconds, which significantly reduces testing time and enables revolutionary speed in testing.
- Visible results: The results are immediately visible to the naked eye, without the need for complex analytical procedures.
- Reliable assessment: The fluid provides a precise and reliable indication of the effectiveness of anti-corrosion coatings.
- Innovative approach: A state-of-the-art testing method that redefines the evaluation process for coatings.
- Efficient and precise: Maximum efficiency with consistent accuracy—an optimal combination for fast and reliable test results.
In addition to the standard test fluid N 100, we offer various versions with graduated intensities that allow for a more precise assessment and expanded applications. Since different metals react to corrosion with varying degrees of severity, it is crucial to select the appropriate test fluid. A stronger reaction occurs, especially with metals that are more susceptible to corrosion, such as iron, aluminum, and zinc. Because its reaction relies on the electrochemical series, the test fluid is unsuitable for use with copper, silver, or gold. Only metals less noble than copper are testable.
The lower the concentration of the solution, the gentler its effect on the surfaces and coatings of the tested materials. This allows even sensitive coatings to be reliably tested for corrosion resistance. Highly reactive metals require a less concentrated solution to ensure proper testing without unnecessarily attacking the coatings.
- In addition to test solution N 100, the grades N 50, N 25, N 15, and N 10 are available.
- Materials and protective coatings with weakly corrosive properties → N 50 and N 100
- Materials and protective coatings with highly corrosive properties → N 10 and N 15
Vital information about the product and its storage
- The test method is suitable for protective coatings with a thickness of up to 5 μm.
- These products are produced following the requirements of EN ISO 2085:2018.
- The shelf life is 1 year from first opening, provided the product is used correctly.
- Recommended storage temperature: between +15 °C and +25 °C; protect from direct sunlight.
- Product color: pale blue.
