WEG and Nexa have Teamed up to Utilize Mining Waste in Crafting Liquid Anticorrosive Paints

A collaboration has been established between WEG and Nexa, a prominent global zinc producer, to create liquid anticorrosive coatings that incorporate jarosite, a byproduct of zinc metallurgy. The anticipated protective effects of the new solution on carbon steel and cast-iron surfaces will reduce the industry's reliance on conventional raw materials and advance the circular economy. Preliminary studies and project outcomes suggest that the paint exhibits notable compatibility with epoxy, alkyd, and acrylic polymers, while also providing efficacious corrosion protection.

Financier of Studies and Projects (Finep), a public agency dedicated to advancing Science, Technology, and Innovation, has contributed R$4 million to the joint venture, which is scheduled to operate for a duration of three years. By capitalising on WEG's proficiency in pigments and Nexa's mastery in mining and metallurgy refuse beneficiation, the objective of this endeavour is to create novel solutions.

"WEG promotes technological partnerships through open innovation to accelerate development and generate innovative solutions, as in this case where the development of a coating that can harness the anticorrosive potential of jarosite, a mineral generated in the zinc beneficiation process, is being studied.", says Rafael Torezan, Managing Director of WEG Coatings Business Unit. "This important initiative with Nexa demonstrates WEG's commitment to developing innovative and sustainable solutions," he adds.

"The transformation of mining and metallurgy towards a sustainable path is possible, and projects like this demonstrate it. Circular economy is the best alternative for disposed waste, and Nexa's Mining Lab platform promotes and makes feasible this type of development, aligned with the best ESG practices. The partnership with WEG further accelerates, promoting development between supplier and customer, and the project already begins with a well-defined chain," says Caio Van Deursen, innovation manager at Nexa.

By ensuring an uninterrupted provision of jarosite, Nexa can effectively mitigate mineral waste levels at the Juiz de Fora facility while upholding its ESG strategy objectives pertaining to the circular economy, decarbonization, positive legacy, productivity, and safety.

Source: WEG