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25-year field test confirms corrosion resistance of Akzo Nobel’s Resicoat
A long-term study in Germany has validated the corrosion protection performance of Akzo Nobel’s Resicoat epoxy powder coating. After 25 years underground in a drinking water pipeline, the coated components showed no signs of damage or delamination.
In a recently completed 25-year study, Akzo Nobel’s Resicoat epoxy powder coating has proven its long-term effectiveness in protecting potable water infrastructure from corrosion. The test, carried out by the German Water Supply Association of Upper County Bad Bentheim and the GSK industry association, involved burying fully operational, coated valves and fittings underground at a typical depth of two metres.
When the components were unearthed, they displayed neither delamination nor cracking. Water flowed freely through the system, and there was no evidence of leakage or corrosion. The study was independently verified by the MPA Hannover materials testing institute.
Independent data confirms material integrity
The results provide rare, long-term field data confirming the reliability of epoxy powder coatings for drinking water systems. Yidong Meng, Global Functional Segment Manager at Akzo Nobel Powder Coatings, emphasised the importance of this performance in extending service life and reducing maintenance costs. Epoxy coatings, he noted, outperform conventional paints and enamels in corrosion protection, minimising failures such as leaks and pipe bursts.
Lars Walther, General Manager of GSK, called the study a milestone: “This comprehensive test offers irrefutable proof of the value of epoxy powder coatings in safeguarding the integrity of potable water supplies.”
High-performance coating for water infrastructure
The Resicoat R series is a thermosetting epoxy powder coating designed for cast iron or steel valves and fittings used in water and gas networks. Applied in a single layer using fluidised bed or electrostatic spray methods, it provides robust and lasting corrosion protection.
Over ten companies participated in the test, which sets a new benchmark for coating performance in the water sector. The findings are expected to strengthen confidence in powder coatings for critical infrastructure applications.
