Advancing the science of protective coatings
Many types of metal ore processing rely on a process called ‘electrolytic refining’ to purify the metal once extracted from the ore. This process is carried out in a series of ‘cells’ or tanks.
Prior to spray coating all cracks and joints were sealed using a Liquid Rubber Zavlar™ rubber sealant, then the specially formulated elastomer modified asphaltic coating, was applied using low pressure spray equipment, to form a seamless membrane that reached into even the most difficult to access areas giving a complete seal. The polymer-asphalt formulation has been tested to show excellent resistance to acids.
One such electrolytic copper refining mill in Mexico uses over 200 individual electrolytic cells. These cells were protected by Engineered Maintenance Solutions using Liquid Rubber Engineered Coatings Vezlar™.
In the electrolytic tank house, anodes are suspended in tanks containing electrolyte, which is a solution of sulphuric acid, copper sulphate and additional agents. Thin copper plates (“cathode starting sheets”) are placed between the anodes and an electrical current is passed between them, dissolving copper from the anodes and depositing it evenly on the cathode starting sheets. During this process, impurities settle to the bottom of the tank to form anode slime, which is a raw material for the production of silver, gold and other precious metals.
The research that went into these coatings resulted in a unique product with both high acid resistance and an excellent balance between hardness and elasticity making a durable long lasting protective coating.
For more information on Liquid Rubber Vezlar™ or other protective coatings from Mpumalanga Rubber contact us at Tel: 013 692 5125 or Cell: 071 674 4550 or 082 824 6590.
Liquid Rubber Vezlar is a registered trademark of Liquid Rubber Industries Inc. Liquid Rubber Industries Inc. makes no warranties, guaranties or conditions, expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy of the data or use therein. Liquid Rubber Industries will not be liable for any damager arising from the use of the information, or product. Unless otherwise stated, Liquid Rubber Industries sole warranty shall be the replacement or refund of the purchase of any product found not to meet specification.