MCI-2020 Gel: Cortec’s Solution for Corrosion Protection of Metal Reinforcement

Date: 09/09/2021

To ensure durability of concrete structures, Cortec has developed MCI-2020 Gel, an injectable corrosion inhibitor which provides corrosion protection directly at or near the depth of steel reinforcement in concrete.

While many technologies delay and mitigate the effects of corrosion on embedded reinforcement, there are fewer options when corrosion takes place deep inside concrete. To tackle this challenge, Cortec developed MCI®-2020 Gel, an injectable corrosion inhibitor which provides corrosion protection of steel reinforcement in concrete.

MCI®-2020 Gel utilizes the time-proven chemistry of Cortec’s Migrating Corrosion Inhibitor (MCI) technology to migrate to steel reinforcement from injection locations. Once at the reinforcing steel, MCI molecules deposit across the metal surface to form a molecular layer which acts as a barrier to corrosive elements such as chlorides.

Advantages of the MCI technology

MCI-2020 Gel can be applied at customizable depths to meet the needs of a structure, directly targeting problem locations and reducing time needed for migration of the inhibitor. It is minimally invasive, as it works even with small injection holes, which can be capped for easy reapplication or sealed with repair mortar as desired, making this solution also economical to install and maintain.

MCI-2020 Gel is non-flammable, non-combustible, and does not contain secondary amines or nitrites (which together can form carcinogenic nitrosamines).

Application fields of MCI-2020 Gel

MCI-2020 Gel is particularly suited where there are difficulties in transporting corrosion inhibitors to the level of the rebar. For example, structures with inconsistent or thick concrete cover or multiple layers of reinforcing steel will require protection beyond the reach of topical treatments. Structures with sealers or tile facades present a physical barrier to the application of a surface applied corrosion inhibitor (SACI) and also need a different approach. MCI-2020 Gel penetrates beyond these obstacles to deliver corrosion protection to the depth required, making it the perfect solution for corrosion protection of below grade tunnels, window lintels, buildings with facades, residential buildings, structural walls and equipment bases, parking decks, ramps, and garages, marine structures, dams, or piers, balconies, decks, retaining walls, and lanais.