WEG and Nexa to develop liquid anti-corrosion coatings using mining waste

WEG collaborates with Nexa to develop liquid anti-corrosion coatings with jarosite added. Jarosite is a waste product from zinc metallurgy. Nexa is a zinc producer. The new solution will focus on carbon steel and cast iron surfaces. This capability is expected to provide a protective effect, which will reduce the use of traditional raw materials and promote a circular economy in the industry.

Preliminary results of the project and preliminary research show that the coating has high compatibility with epoxy resin, alkyd resin, and acrylic resin, and has effective anti-corrosion properties.

The partnership between the two companies will last for three years and will involve an investment of R$4 million. This was proposed by the Financier of Studies and Projects, a public body that promotes science, technology and innovation. The goal is to develop innovative solutions through this initiative. It will leverage WEG’s expertise in coatings and Nexa’s expertise in mining and metallurgical waste beneficiation.

“WEG promotes technical collaboration through open innovation to accelerate development and generate innovative solutions, for example, research is underway to develop a coating that can harness the anti-corrosion potential of jarosite, a mineral produced during zinc beneficiation, " said Rafael Torezan, General Manager of WEG’s Coatings Business Unit. “This important initiative with Nexa demonstrates WEG’s commitment to developing innovative and sustainable solutions.”

The use of jarosite as a pigment originated at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG). This was done with the support of Professor Fernando Cotting who conducted preliminary tests and demonstrated the feasibility of coating development.

With the continued supply of jarosite, Nexa will reduce mineral waste levels at the Juiz de Fora unit. It will continue its circular economy, decarbonisation, positive legacy, productivity and safety agenda, which are part of the company's ESG strategy.

Transforming the mining and metallurgical industry towards a sustainable development path is possible, as projects like this prove. The circular economy is the best option for dealing with waste. Nexa’s Mining Labs platform facilitates and enables this type of development, aligned with best ESG practices.” said Caio Van Deursen, Innovation Manager at Nexa. “The cooperation with WEG further accelerates the development between suppliers and customers and the project already starts with a clear chain.”