Testing - NanoPrep

Publication:
Journal of Surface Coatings Australia
Edition:
June 2026
Industry:
Oil & Gas
Product:
NanoPrep
Location:
Qld, Australia
Applied:
Oct 2025

The NanoPrep fuel tank case study as it appears across a two-page spread in the June 2026 Journal of Surface Coatings Australia.

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 create a high risk of under-film and crevice corrosion, especially at saddle supports and tank-to-concrete interfaces.

The coastal environment adds airborne chlorides which accelerate 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 — an alternative method was required.

The above-ground diesel storage tanks in their coastal Queensland setting.

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 it acts as a tie coat for many compatible topcoats.

Low-pressure washing and application of NanoPrep by roller, including tight, difficult-to-access areas beneath the tank.

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.

Progressive application of the NanoPrep anticorrosive coating across the tank surfaces.

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 topcoats.

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.