The Problem
A 110,000-litre above-ground carbon-steel diesel tank in Queensland, required a high-performance anticorrosive coating system. Year round rain and condensation creates a high risk of under-film and crevice corrosion, especially at saddle supports and tank-to-concrete interfaces. In addition, the coastal environment adds airborne chlorides which accelerates corrosion, while continuous sunlight and elevated surface temperatures demand a UV-stable, heat-tolerant topcoat to prevent premature coating degradation. Given the limited clearance beneath the tank and the presence of adjoining critical infrastructure, abrasive blasting for surface preparation was not feasible; therefore, an alternative method was required.
The Application
NanoPrep was chosen as the preferred surface-preparation method since it offers an effective, long lasting, low-cost alternative to abrasive blasting using a simple low-pressure power wash (3,500 psi) combined with power-tool cleaning. NanoPrep’s unique technology allows it to penetrate deep into existing painted surfaces for high adhesion and acts as a tie coat for many compatible topcoats.
NanoPrep eliminates the need for abrasive blasting, enabling surface preparation via a simple low-pressure wash. It applies easily by roller, brush, or airless spray and is well suited to tight or difficult-to-access areas.
Upon application of NanoPrep to the substrate, Nanofusion takes place enabling deep penetration into the rusted substrate to create a stable, high-bond strength base suitable for non-solvent or low-solvent top coats.
The Outcome
NanoPrep enabled effective surface preparation using low-pressure washing and power-tool cleaning, avoiding the excessive cost and downtime of abrasive blasting.
The coating system delivered strong adhesion and robust corrosion resistance at saddle supports and tank-to-concrete interfaces, and a compatible UV-stable, heat-tolerant topcoat suited to Queensland conditions was successfully applied.
The outcome is extended service life, protected fuel quality, and simpler future maintenance.
Project Specification
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Industry | Oil & Gas |
| Application | Above-ground diesel storage tank — external |
| Tank capacity | 110,000 litres |
| Material | Carbon steel |
| Surface preparation | Low-pressure power wash (3,500 psi) + power tool clean |
| NanoPrep system | NanoPrep rust primer + compatible topcoat |
| Location | Queensland, Australia |
