Repair Systems
Corrosion inhibitors (MCI)
Migrating corrosion inhibitor (MCI) — technical reference for reinforcement corrosion in Australian remedial building practice. Covers system selection, product comparisons, and brand equivalents.
What is corrosion inhibitors (mci)?
Migrating corrosion inhibitors (MCI) are chemical compounds — typically amine-based or amino alcohol formulations — applied to the surface of existing concrete to penetrate through the cover depth and form a protective barrier on the reinforcing steel below. Unlike physical repair methods, MCIs do not require concrete breakout, making them suitable for treating large areas of at-risk concrete where corrosion risk is identified but full repair is not yet warranted or economically feasible. Commonly used in carparks, facades, and marine structures with known chloride ingress, as part of a broader corrosion management strategy. Effectiveness depends on concrete cover depth and porosity, and independent core sampling with testing is recommended to verify penetration to rebar level. Specified by corrosion engineers and building consultants as a complementary or interim treatment alongside physical repair.
Product Reference
Scroll right to see all brands. Use each card's TDS link for verified specifications before specifying on any project.
Sika Ferrogard-903+
migrating corrosion inhibitor, surface-applied, 5-20 L
System Description
Applied to concrete surface; migrates to rebar. Use as part of full repair system per engineer spec.
Technical Properties
- Migrating inhibitors penetrate existing cover concrete — no breakout required
- Surface-applied treatment can arrest active corrosion where full repair is not feasible
Limitations
- Penetration depth depends on cover quality and porosity — independent testing required
- Not a substitute for full repair in severely corroded or section-loss structures
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
System Description
Applied to concrete surface; migrates to rebar. Use as part of full repair system per engineer spec.
Technical Properties
- Migrating inhibitors penetrate existing cover concrete — no breakout required
- Surface-applied treatment can arrest active corrosion where full repair is not feasible
Limitations
- Penetration depth depends on cover quality and porosity — independent testing required
- Not a substitute for full repair in severely corroded or section-loss structures
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
Fosroc Renderoc TS-IC
structural repair mortar with integral corrosion inhibitor, 25 kg bag
System Description
Applied to concrete surface; migrates to rebar. Use as part of full repair system per engineer spec.
Technical Properties
- Migrating inhibitors penetrate existing cover concrete — no breakout required
- Surface-applied treatment can arrest active corrosion where full repair is not feasible
Limitations
- Penetration depth depends on cover quality and porosity — independent testing required
- Not a substitute for full repair in severely corroded or section-loss structures
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
System Description
Applied to concrete surface; migrates to rebar. Use as part of full repair system per engineer spec.
Technical Properties
- Migrating inhibitors penetrate existing cover concrete — no breakout required
- Surface-applied treatment can arrest active corrosion where full repair is not feasible
Limitations
- Penetration depth depends on cover quality and porosity — independent testing required
- Not a substitute for full repair in severely corroded or section-loss structures
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
System Description
Applied to concrete surface; migrates to rebar. Use as part of full repair system per engineer spec.
Technical Properties
- Migrating inhibitors penetrate existing cover concrete — no breakout required
- Surface-applied treatment can arrest active corrosion where full repair is not feasible
Limitations
- Penetration depth depends on cover quality and porosity — independent testing required
- Not a substitute for full repair in severely corroded or section-loss structures
PROCUREMENT SOURCES
Brand Equivalents
Side-by-side view of equivalent products across all major brands.
| Material | Ardex | Sika | Fosroc | Tremco / Other | Parchem / Mapei |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rust inhibitor / corrosion inhibitor (migrating) | Ardex | Sika Ferrogard-903+ | Fosroc Renderoc TS-IC | Tremco Ferroguard | Parchem Nitocor |
Disclaimer
Information is general only. Product selection must be confirmed against project requirements, substrate condition, exposure class, manufacturer technical data sheets, NCC requirements, Australian Standards (including AS 3600), and consultant or structural engineer specifications. Do not rely on this reference as a substitute for professional engineering advice.
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