FAQ

1. What is VpCI^®?
VpCI^® stands for Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitor. Vapor phase Corrosion Inhibitors protect metal from corrosion without being in direct contact with the metal surface.

2. How does VpCI^® work?
VpCI^® works by sublimating, or vaporizing, from the packaging material and saturating or filling the packaged atmosphere. Once the atmosphere is saturated, VpCI^® molecules bind, or adsorb, onto the metal surface. This action forms a thin, mono-molecular layer that prevents corrosion from occurring.

3. How is VpCI^® packaging different from desiccant?
Desiccants remove moisture from enclosed packaging. In some cases, this can reduce the risk of corrosion; however, once the desiccant becomes saturated, or a package is opened and more moisture enters the package, desiccant is no longer effective. VpCI^® provides active corrosion protection and is self-replenishing, providing corrosion protection even if the package is opened for a brief amount of time.

4. Do I need to clean my parts after I remove them from the VpCI^® packaging?
Because VpCI^® chemistry first attempts to saturate the enclosed atmosphere of the packaging, once a metal part is removed from the packaging VpCI^® molecules naturally leave the surface. This leaves a clean metal surface without need for cleaning.

5. What are some appropriate ways to seal my VpCI^® packaging?
VpCI^® bags may be heat sealed, zip tied, zip closed, or taped. VpCI^® papers may be wrapped around parts and taped to provide protection.

6. When should I replace my VpCI^® packaging?
VpCI^® packaging is typically specified to the needs of the application as a single use, industrially recyclable material. Packaging materials should be inspected, and removed or replaced if they have holes, tears, or punctures that cannot be easily repaired or patched with tape.

7. What is the shelf life on Cortec^® packaging products?
The shelf life on most Cortec^® packaging products is 2 years. That means if the products are stored in the original packaging and used within 2 years of the manufacturing date, Cortec^® is confident that the VpCI^® packaging product will function as if it were fresh off the production line.