Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel

Introduction

Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel is a cutting-edge corrosion inhibitor that offers a comprehensive solution to the corrosion conundrum. Developed by the industry leaders at Cortec Corporation, this innovative product harnesses the power of migrating corrosion inhibitor (MCI) technology to create a barrier to corrosive elements, providing unparalleled protection for a wide range of concrete structures and reinforced steel.

Product Specifications (.PDF)

The key features of Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel include:

• Effective corrosion inhibition: The product’s active ingredients work to neutralize the electrochemical processes that lead to corrosion, effectively protecting the reinforcing steel from deterioration.
• Ease of application: Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel can be easily applied to concrete surfaces using a variety of methods, including brushing, rolling, or spraying, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of projects.
• Environmental compatibility: The water-based, non-toxic formula of Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel ensures that it is environmentally friendly and safe for both the applicators and the surrounding environment.
• Long-lasting protection: The migrating corrosion inhibitors in the gel continue to provide active protection for years, even as the concrete ages and undergoes structural changes.
• How Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel Works

The key to the effectiveness of Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel lies in its unique migrating corrosion inhibitor (MCI) technology, which targets the depth of steel reinforcement. This innovative approach allows the active ingredients in the gel to penetrate deep into the concrete, forming a protective barrier around the reinforcing steel.

The MCI technology works by:

• Migrating through the concrete: The active ingredients in the gel are designed to migrate through the porous concrete structure, reaching the reinforcing steel.
• Forming a protective layer: Once the MCI compounds reach the steel, they form a protective molecular layer on the surface, shielding it from the electrochemical processes that lead to corrosion.
• Neutralising corrosion: The MCI compounds work to neutralise the electrochemical reactions that cause corrosion, effectively halting the deterioration of the reinforcing steel.

This multi-layered approach ensures that Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel provides corrosion protection directly, offering comprehensive, long-lasting protection against corrosion, even in the most challenging environments.

Applications of Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel

Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel is a versatile product that can be used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Balconies
• Parking decks
• Marine structures
• Retaining walls

Concrete Structures

• Bridges
• Parking garages
• Highways
• Dams
• Tunnels
• Below grade tunnels
• Buildings

Reinforcing Steel Protection

• Embedded reinforcement
• Structural steel
• Prestressed concrete
• Reinforced concrete

Other Suitable Applications

• Marine environments
• Industrial facilities
• Transportation infrastructure
• Wastewater treatment plants
• Structural walls

By providing effective corrosion protection for these critical assets, Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel helps to extend the lifespan of infrastructure, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure the safety and reliability of these vital structures.

Advantages Over Traditional Corrosion Protection Methods

Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel offers several key advantages over traditional corrosion protection methods, such as surface applied corrosion inhibitors:

• Effectiveness: The MCI technology in the gel provides a robust dose of corrosion protection that effectively neutralises the root causes of corrosion, offering superior protection compared to surface-level treatments.
• Ease of Application: The water-based, low-viscosity formula of Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel makes it easy to apply using a variety of methods, including brushing, rolling, or spraying, without the need for specialized equipment or extensive surface preparation.
• Environmental Compatibility: The non-toxic, water-based formula of the gel ensures that it is environmentally friendly and safe for both the applicators and the surrounding environment, making it a sustainable choice for corrosion protection.
• Cost-Effectiveness: By extending the lifespan of concrete structures and reinforced steel, Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel can help to significantly reduce the long-term maintenance and repair costs associated with corrosion-related damage.

Best Practices for Application

To ensure the optimal performance of Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel and deliver corrosion protection, it is essential to follow best practices for application. These include:

1. Surface Preparation: Ensure that the concrete surface is clean, dry, and free of any contaminants or existing coatings that could interfere with the gel’s penetration.
2. Application Techniques: Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel can be applied using a variety of methods, including brushing, rolling, or spraying. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific application technique to ensure even coverage and maximum effectiveness.
3. Safety Considerations: As with any construction material, it is important to follow all safety protocols and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling and applying Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel.

By adhering to these best practices, you can ensure that Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel provides the most effective and long-lasting corrosion protection for your concrete structures and reinforced steel.

Comparison with Other Cortec Products

Cortec Corporation offers a comprehensive range of corrosion inhibition products, including Cortec's migrating corrosion inhibitor, each designed to address specific challenges and applications. While Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel is a standout solution for concrete and reinforced steel protection, it is part of a broader portfolio of MCI products that includes:

• Cortec MCI®-2018 and MCI®-2019: Powder-based corrosion inhibitors for concrete and masonry
• Cortec MCI®-2039: Migrating corrosion inhibitor for reinforced concrete
• Cortec MCI®-2061: Corrosion inhibitor for post-tensioned concrete

When selecting the appropriate Cortec product for your project, it is important to consider factors such as the specific application, environmental conditions, and the desired level of protection. The team at Cortec can provide guidance and recommendations to help you choose the most suitable solution for your needs.

Future Developments and Innovations

As the construction and infrastructure industries continue to evolve, Cortec Corporation remains at the forefront of corrosion protection research and development, specifically targeting steel reinforcement within concrete structures. The company is committed to exploring new advancements in MCI technology, with the goal of providing even more effective and innovative solutions to combat the persistent challenge of corrosion.

Some of the areas of ongoing research and development include:

• Enhancing the penetration and migration capabilities of MCI compounds
• Developing more environmentally friendly and sustainable formulations
• Exploring the integration of MCI technology with other advanced materials and construction techniques
• Expanding the range of applications for Cortec’s corrosion inhibition products

By staying at the cutting edge of innovation, Cortec Corporation is poised to continue leading the charge in the fight against corrosion, ensuring that the infrastructure we rely on remains safe, reliable, and resilient for generations to come.

Conclusion

Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel is a game-changing solution in the world of corrosion protection, providing corrosion protection directly at or near the depth of steel reinforcement in concrete structures. By harnessing the power of migrating corrosion inhibitor technology, this innovative product offers a comprehensive, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly approach to safeguarding concrete structures and reinforced steel.

From bridges and highways to buildings and marine environments, Cortec MCI® 2020 Gel has proven its effectiveness in a wide range of real-world applications, helping to extend the lifespan of critical infrastructure and reduce the costly burden of corrosion-related repairs.