Sustainable VCI Solutions: Embracing the Future of Environmental Preservation

At Northern Technologies International Corporation (NTIC)/ZERUST®, we are committed to creating a more sustainable future. We convert unique environmentally beneficial materials science into value-added products and services for industrial and consumer applications. Our R & D teams deliver innovative, sustainable VCI technologies and products that embrace the future of environmental preservation by addressing climate change, using renewable materials, and enabling sustainable waste management. We do this while maintaining the highest performance and processability.

– G. Patrick Lynch, President & CEO

Commitment to Our Environment

Northern Technologies International Corporation (NTIC)/ZERUST® utilizes electricity generated by 100% renewable sources through the purchase of energy offset credits for all facilities in the USA. This annually offsets greenhouse gas emissions to the equivalent of…

380 Metric Tons of CO₂

Smoke stack emitting a cloud of smoke against a clear sky, symbolizing CO₂ emissions, contrasted with NTIC/ZERUST’s dedication to renewable energy for sustainable VCI solutions.

81.8 Passenger Cars driven for 1 year

A congested traffic jam, representing the CO₂ emissions offset by NTIC/ZERUST's commitment to using electricity from 100% renewable sources.

47.8 Average Household energy use for 1 year

Neighborhood with homes and greenery, symbolizing the reduction in CO₂ emissions equivalent to 47.8 households, achieved by NTIC/ZERUST using renewable energy sources.

Additionally, NTIC/ZERUST® develops technologies that support green manufacturing processes and energy production.

Closing the Loop with ZERUST®/RecycleMax®

ZERUST® and RecycleMax® have partnered to establish the ZeCycle Recycling Program, a groundbreaking initiative that exemplifies our commitment to sustainability. This innovative program provides a closed-loop system for recycling used VCI and LDPE packaging. Using the ZeCycle Recycling Program, used ZERUST® and non-ZERUST® films are collected, recycled into post-consumer recycled (PCR) pellets, and remanufactured into new ZERUST® PCR films.

By participating in the ZeCycle Recycling Program, businesses can significantly minimize plastic waste while maintaining the same trusted corrosion protection. However, by choosing ZERUST® ICT®510-PCR30 VCI packaging and closing the loop with ZeCycle, businesses can take it a step further—reducing their carbon footprint while supporting a circular economy. Through the ZeCycle program, companies can take measurable steps toward their zero waste goals by closing the loop on packaging and incorporating responsible recycling into their operations.

How the ZeCycle Recycling Program Works

Company A packages and ships metal components/equipment in ZERUST® VCI packaging.
Company B receives metal components/equipment packaged in ZERUST® VCI packaging.
Company B sorts used ZERUST® VCI and plain poly packaging on-site.
Company B bales used ZERUST® VCI and plain poly packaging on-site.
RecycleMax® collects and transports the sorted and baled packaging to a recycling facility.
Recycled packaging is washed and reground into Post-Consumer Reycled (PCR) pellets at the recycling facility.
PCR Pellets are used to manufacture new ZERUST® ICT®510-PCR30 VCI packaging.

This end-of-life recovery process ensures that used materials are transformed into new, high-quality ZERUST® VCI packaging, reducing the need for virgin plastics while supporting a circular economy.

Environmental Benefits of ZERUST®/EXCOR® VCI Products

ZERUST®/EXCOR® is a leading provider of Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor (VCI) technologies that are used for packaging and rust prevention. As well as rust removers to reduce the impact manufacturing has on the environment by:

Reducing Need for Hazardous Materials. ZERUST®’s VCI products often replace more hazardous rust-prevention methods, like oil and solvent-based coatings, which can be harmful to the environment.
Longer Lifespan of Metals. By effectively preventing rust, ZERUST® products extend the lifespan of metals. Consequently, this reduces the need for frequent replacements. As a result, it lowers the demand for new metal production, which is a process that often involves significant environmental impact.
Less Waste. The ZeCycle Recycling Program ensures that used ZERUST® VCI films and LDPE packaging are collected, recycled, and repurposed into post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials, significantly reducing landfill use and environmental harm. Combined with the longer lifespan of metal components protected by ZERUST® products, this approach minimizes scrap metal and waste, advancing waste reduction efforts.
Energy Conservation. By protecting metals against corrosion, ZERUST® helps maintain the efficiency of mechanical systems and structures, thereby ensuring efficient systems consume less energy and contribute to reduced carbon emissions.
Safe for People and Environment. ZERUST® formulations are typically designed to be non-toxic and safe for both people and the environment, making them a preferable option over more hazardous chemicals.
Recyclability. ZERUST® VCI Poly and VCI Paper products are recyclable, which further aids in waste reduction. Additionally, the ZeCycle Recycling Program transforms used film materials into PCR pellets. By participating in this closed-loop system, customers utilizing VCI Poly products contribute to waste reduction, resource conservation, and promoting a circular economy.
Low VOC Emissions. Additionally, many ZERUST® liquid products have low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, which is beneficial for air quality and reduces harmful atmospheric pollutants.
Carbon Footprint Reduction. Through the ZeCycle Recycling Program, ZERUST® incorporates PCR materials into our VCI films, further reducing reliance on virgin plastics and lowering carbon emissions. This initiative, paired with our use of recycled resins from consumer and industrial sources, underscores our dedication to sustainability and supports our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Revolutionizing Sustainable Practices in VCI Packaging: ZERUST®’s Pioneering Role in Post-Consumer Recycling

Engine wrapped in ZERUST Post Consume Recycled VCI Poly Film, demonstrating rust protection and commitment to sustainability.

Environmental consciousness is on the rise. As a result, companies are increasingly seeking innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint and promote sustainability. Consequently, one such approach that’s gaining traction is post-consumer recycling. Here at ZERUST®, we’re at the forefront of implementing this technology across our VCI polymer film solutions. These solutions are commonly used to protect metal components and equipment from corrosion during storage and transportation.

Through our partnership with RecycleMax, ZERUST® has established the ZeCycle Recycling Program, taking our commitment to post-consumer recycling even further. This program creates a closed-loop system that allows customers to recycle their used VCI and LDPE packaging into post-consumer recycled (PCR) pellets, which are then used to produce new ZERUST® PCR films. By participating in the ZeCycle Recycling Program, businesses not only reduce their reliance on virgin plastics but also contribute to the circular economy in a measurable way.

Furthermore, by incorporating post-consumer recycled materials into our VCI polymer packaging products, ZERUST® is reducing the demand for virgin plastics and promoting the circular economy. Moreover, by choosing ZERUST® products, businesses can protect their metal assets, reduce their environmental footprint, and join the global effort to build a more sustainable and responsible future!