Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA
Corrosion protection and corrosion management
Innovative corrosion protection solutions and effective corrosion management: durable and sustainable while conserving resources
In the field of corrosion protection and corrosion management, we bring together a wealth of expertise in chemicals, material science, application and process engineering, analytics and measurement technology. Through this targeted combination of expertise, we develop environmentally friendly and sustainable corrosion protection solutions that are durable and efficient while conserving resources.
Our experienced project teams advise companies in the automotive industry, mechanical engineering industry, construction industry and shipbuilding industry. Our corrosion protection solutions are optimized for a diverse range of application areas and offer protection concepts that are configured to meet individual needs.
Our services in the field of corrosion protection
Drawing on many years of research into corrosion protection systems and their interactions, we can help you to find the ideal coating for your application. Our research teams can offer you the following services and more.
- Optimization of existing processes: We develop corrosion-resistant surface treatments adapted to the relevant material.
- Process planning for corrosion-protective coatings: From defining requirements to pretreatment, application engineering and process monitoring, we can manage the entire planning procedure for your corrosion protection process.
- Development of sustainable corrosion protection methods: We offer solutions that use alternative separation methods to achieve environmentally friendly and efficient results.
- Corrosion protection systems free from harmful substances: We create environmentally friendly, VOC-free alternatives using biologically harmless materials.
- Efficient layer build-up: Our corrosion coating methods increase material efficiency and guarantee long-term protection.
- Corrosion protection for galvanized steel and aluminum materials: Individually configured systems for metals subject to severe loads.
- Analysis and development of corrosion protection materials: Targeted and application-oriented optimization of corrosion protection pigments and filling agents and integration of new corrosion inhibitors.
- Corrosion damage and coating behavior: We minimize the risk of damage and optimize protection concepts with our precision analysis and testing.
- Corrosion tests: From salt spray testing to cyclic corrosion testing, FPL test and accelerated corrosion testing, we examine new protection concepts and materials to determine their protective function and performance (including compliance with the requirements of DIN EN ISO 12944).
Great optimization potential with heavy-duty corrosion protection
Heavy-duty corrosion protection includes high-quality coatings and materials that need to withstand extreme conditions while offering properties such as excellent adhesion and flexibility. Application examples include offshore facilities and major metal structures such as bridges, building structures or industrial equipment that are subject to significant mechanical impacts. As corrosion protection is highly resource-intensive in these areas, there is great potential for sustainable alternatives and the development of recipes with alternative corrosion inhibitors. Our teams develop custom corrosion-protective coatings that minimize material consumption, energy and time efficiently with a special focus on heavy-duty corrosion protection.
Corrosion management: Early detection of corrosion and long-term prevention of damage.
Effective corrosion management means continuous monitoring of the corrosion behavior of materials and the prevention of damage through a predictive approach. With intelligent sensor layers and measurement methods, corrosion can be monitored and detected before it occurs, e.g., by measuring the early signs through polarization (graphene-based Smart Steel Technology). By monitoring these early signs of corrosion, it is possible to implement automated regulation of corrosion protection (active corrosion protection) and predictive maintenance of systems and steel structures.