Mica — It’s Not Just There for the Sparkle!

Natural Product Increases Corrosive Resistance

Epoxy coatings are already naturally resistant to corrosion. States one scientific study in the journal Polymers: “Epoxy resin has excellent adhesion; low shrinkage; and good permeability resistance to water, acids, alkalis, and other corrosive media. Thus, it has been commonly used as an anti-corrosion coating in both industrial and daily-life applications.” Nevertheless, everything can be improved, and one thing that improves the corrosion resistance of epoxy coatings is mica.

Beyond Decorative with Mica

Most of our clients think of adding mica strictly as an aesthetic measure, since it provides pearlescence, shine, and sparkle to their epoxy coatings. Viewing it simply as a decorative additive overlooks the latest science on epoxy coatings that demonstrates the protective value of mica when added to epoxy. For example, another scientific study featured in The International Journal of Electrochemical Science examined the value of adding 35% by weight mica as a filler in anti-corrosive applications of epoxy coatings.

In their paper, the scientists stated the following: “Mica, often used as a filler in anticorrosive coatings, has good heat resistance, electrochemical corrosion resistance and electrical insulating properties, which can increase the corrosion resistance of polymer-based coatings.” They then proceeded to demonstrate the value of mica in epoxy coatings with a series of durability tests between mica-free and mica-infused epoxy coatings. The results were conclusive in favor of adding mica to your epoxy mix.

“Compared with an epoxy varnish coating without mica, the addition of mica enhanced the mechanical properties, water absorption properties, and thermal stability of the protective coating…its wet adhesion increased by 230%, impermeability increased by 98.5%, and thermal stability increased by 14.4%….The corrosion resistance increased by 3 orders of magnitude.

“The addition of mica can…prolong the service life of the anticorrosion coating.”

Ask for Mica-infused Epoxy Coatings

If you would like to realize the benefits of mica-infused epoxy coatings for protecting your floors, contact California Custom Coatings today. We offer service in Sacramento and Northern California, with service to Southern California and nearby states for particularly large projects. Call us by phone or use our convenient online request form.