CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., Oct 13, 2010 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ --

A leading authority from Quaker Chemical (NYSE: KWR) -- a global leader in process chemicals, fluids, coatings and surface treatment products -- will present information on chemical passivation of zinc surfaces at the 102nd Galvanizers Association Conference and Exposition in Huntsville, AL, October 24-27. Quaker's presentation will include an overview of the chemistry involved, alternate solutions, and new technology trends.

For several years, the application of Hexavalent Chromium - Cr6+ - for metal surface treatments has been severely restricted in almost all fields of industry throughout Europe. However, it has remained as the backbone technology for the prevention of corrosion (white rust formation) of zinc-coated steel in the United States and several other countries. Today's global steel manufacturers are not only seeking chromium (6) - free chemistry, but are requiring coatings that also encompass lubricity, paint adhesion promotion, cosmetic appearance, and electrical resistance. A solution to meet these requirements has resulted in new and novel technological surface treatments for the Steel industry called Passivation.

Quaker Chemical is known as a leader in technical knowledge for the Steel industry. The company has recently studied the chemical conversion process on zinc surfaces that impart a coating which subsequently resists corrosion of the zinc surface in the presence of water (known as Passivation). Quaker expert, Dr. James Davis, Product Manager for North America Steel, will share his Passivation Surface Treatment expertise at the Galvanizers Conference on Monday, October 25 at 2:35pm. Specifically, he will discuss the chemistry involved in passivate solutions, new alternate solutions such as Thin Organic Coatings, and new technology trends such as organo-metallic films.

Quaker's PRIMECOAT Passivation Surface Treatments reflect the newest fluoride-free and chrome (6) - free technologies, concentrating on increased corrosion protection of the zinc-coated surface. Quaker Passivation Treatment provides the added benefits of lubrication for roll-forming as well as compatibility with subsequent paint films. Quaker's Surface Treatments include a Pre-treatment, aChromium III Passivate, and a thin organic coating (TOC)

Quaker's PRIMECOAT Surface Treatment provides a clear, colorless appearance on the zinc-coated surface; and achieves excellent corrosion protection with their Passivation layers (less than 5% white rust after 72 hrs. salt spray exposure).

For more information on Quaker Chemical's process chemicals, fluids, coatings and surface treatments for the steel industry, please visit www.quakerchem.com.

Quaker Chemical Corporation is a leading global provider of process chemicals, chemical specialties, services, and technical expertise to a wide range of industries - including steel, automotive, mining, aerospace, tube and pipe, coatings and construction materials. Quaker's products, technical solutions, and chemical management services enhance customers' processes, improve product quality, and lower costs. Quaker's headquarters is located near Philadelphia in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania.

SOURCE Quaker Chemical