Test confirms zircon sand is not corrosive to metal

ZIA has published an industry position paper outlining its findings following an independent test carried out by global consulting and advisory firm, DEKRA Insight (UK). The test, carried out over a seven day period in February 2019, concluded that there was 0% mass loss on steel, with no observed surface pitting. Therefore, it concluded that zircon sand is not a corrosive solid bulk material.

The IMO’s International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code requires material carried in bulk to be tested for corrosivity to metals. However, the specified UN C.1 test was developed for liquids and was not validated for solids. Refinements to this C.1 test and guidance that extends and details the testing method were developed following a research program carried out by a Global Industry Alliance. The IMO member states of Australia, Brazil, Canada and the USA proposed the amendments to the IMSBC Code.

To provide clarity in the short term, ZIA commissioned DEKRA Insight to test a sample of zircon sand that previously failed the UN C.1 test. Zircon sand from the same sample was re-tested at the same laboratory, using the test method in accordance with IMO’s Interim Guidance for Conducting the Refined MHB Corrosivity (Cr) Test. The results demonstrated that bulk zircon sand is not corrosive to metal.

To access the industry position paper, which includes a summary of the test results, please click here.

Read the article online at: https://www.drybulkmagazine.com/dry-bulk/29052019/test-confirms-zircon-sand-is-not-corrosive-to-metal/