SCI features our Triple-Mode Technology
Showcasing aluminium flake technology for corrosion under insulation protection in high-temperature environments.
Triple-Mode Protection for High Temperature corrosion under insulation (CUI)
Corrosion under insulation (CUI) remains one of the most costly and challenging corrosion mechanisms affecting industrial assets worldwide. Across refining, petrochemical, LNG and power facilities, asset owners continue to seek effective CUI coating solutions capable of withstanding high operating temperatures, thermal cycling and wet-dry exposure.
International® has developed aluminium flake reinforced temperature-resistant coating technology that has demonstrated long-term field performance and has now been independently published in Surface Coatings International.
Panorama inside of the interior of a chemical plant or oil refinery
The science behind triple-mode protection
Modern high heat and temperature resistant coatings from International® use advanced aluminium flake pigment technology to help protect against corrosion under insulation (CUI) and high temperature corrosion in demanding operating environments.
The UPC range and several Intertherm technologies incorporate Triple Mode Action Aluminium Flake, providing three complementary mechanisms of defence.
Inhibitor Reservoir – Aluminium flakes can act as a reservoir for corrosion inhibitors, ensuring sustained protection over time.
Barrier Protection – Creates a dense, impermeable shield that blocks moisture and contaminants from reaching the substrate.
Mechanical Reinforcement – Enhances coating toughness and crack resistance, reducing the risk of failure under thermal cycling and mechanical stress.
Proven performance beyond the laboratory
The SCI article combines laboratory testing with long-term field performance data to evaluate aluminium flake reinforced coating technology for high-temperature CUI protection, helping bridge the gap between laboratory performance and real-world asset integrity outcomes.
The published research examines:
CUI simulation testing
Aluminium flake performance vs TSA
ISO 19277:2018 Houston Pipe Testing
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS)
SEM and microscopy analysis
Twenty-year operating experience
Ten-year wellhead casing performance
The published results demonstrated excellent corrosion protection under the conditions evaluated and showed strong correlation with long-term field performance.
Learn more
Download the technical article published in Surface Coatings International to explore the science, testing and field performance behind aluminium flake reinforced coatings for high-temperature corrosion under insulation (CUI) protection.
Beyond TSA: The rise of aluminium flake silicone coatings in high-temperature CUI applications and wellhead casing protection
Published in Surface Coatings International (OCCA), Volume 109.1, January–February 2026.
For more information on Surface Coatings International, visit their website: https://www.surfacecoatingsinternational.com/
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