'World champion in corrosion prevention'

Hot-dip galvanizing is a unique process and has been around for more than 150 years. No other method comes even close to this most complete and durable form of corrosion prevention for steel, according to Hans Boender of Zinkinfo Benelux. "Hot-dip galvanizing is the world champion in corrosion prevention and ensures a maintenance-free lifespan of many decades." The age-old methodology also proves its added value in the circular economy.

As a trade association, Zinkinfo Benelux represents the interests of hot-dip galvanizers in the Benelux. "For more than 70 years we have been engaged in promoting hot-dip galvanizing," says Boender. "The preservation method for steel was discovered on a laboratory scale by Frenchman Malouin as early as 1742, but it was not widely used until a hundred years later during the industrial revolution. Back then, it was mainly the small items galvanized that were used daily on the farm, such as buckets and tubs. Nowadays, these are made of (recycled) plastic and it is precisely the steel beams of the large stables that are galvanized, just to stay in the agricultural sector. And especially in that environment, the long, maintenance-free life proves its added value."

Over the years, hot-dip galvanizing has become increasingly well known and widely accepted. "A great deal has also already been achieved when it comes to improving safety and optimizations in energy consumption and zinc composition to achieve CO2-neutral products," says Boender. "An important objective of the foundation is to take joint steps and move forward as an industry. Thanks to hot-dip galvanizing, we are going for 100% circular steel. If dismantling a structure and rebuilding it elsewhere is no longer a solution, it is possible to dezincify the galvanized steel at the end of its life cycle and melt it down. The zinc is then captured, leaving both raw materials intact without loss of properties and 100% recycled. A strong asset in the circular economy."

Hot-dip galvanizing is a very reliable preservation process, Boender summarizes. "You apply it and it doesn't 'fall off' again. Even after decades. In short, 'what you see is what you get'." To highlight the many advantages of hot-dip galvanizing, including in the circular economy, Zinkinfo Benelux regularly organizes knowledge sessions, webinars and learning lunches for architects, steel builders, clients and other interested parties. "In addition, we provide testing and inspection services as an independent party and increasingly act as a helpdesk. We also advise and assist non-members with questions about hot-dip galvanizing."