Duplex System Compatibility

What Paints and Powders are compatible with Galvanizing?

A partial listing of available paint, paint systems,

and powder coatings that are compatible with

galvanizing are listed in the following table. The
paint manufacturer can provide more thorough
information about the compatibility of specific
systems with galvanized steel. Always consult
the paint manufacturer prior to painting galvanized
steel. Different physical and chemical characteristics
for the same types of paint may have varied reactions
with a galvanized surface. The paint manufacturer and

galvanizer can assist in the creation of a successful

duplex system.

Type	Compatibility	Comments
Acrylics	Sometimes	If the pH of the paint is high,  problems may occur due to ammonia reacting with zinc
Aliphatic Polyurethanes	Yes	If used as a top coat for a  polyamide epoxy primer, it is considered a superior duplex system
Alkyds	No	The alkaline zinc surface causes the alkyds to saponify, causing  premature peeling
Asphalts	No	Petroleum base is usually not recommended for use on galvanized steel
Bituminous	Yes	Used for parts that are to be buried in soil
Chlorinated Rubbers	Yes	High VOC content has severely limited their availability
Coal Tar Epoxies	Sometimes	Rarely used, only if parts are to be buried in soil
Epoxies	Sometimes	If paint is specifically manufactured for use with galvanized steel
Epoxy-Polyamide Cured	Yes	Has superior adherence to galvanized steel
Latex-Acrylics	Yes	Has the added benefit of being environmentally friendly
Latex-Water-based	Sometimes	Consult paint manufacturer
Oil Base	Sometimes	Consult paint manufacturer
Portland Cement in Oil	Yes	Has superior adherence to galvanized steel
Silicones	No	Not for use directly over  galvanized steel, can be beneficial in high temperature systems w/ base coat
Vinyls	Yes	Usually requires profiling, high VOC’s have severely limited their availability
Powder Coating	Yes	Low temperature curing powder coatings work exceptionally  well over galvanized steel