Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors (VCI) Packaging Market Size, Share, Opportunities, And Trends By Product (VCI Paper, VCI Film (Stretch, Shrink, Sheet) VCI Bags (Flat, Gusseted, Zipper), Foam, Others), By Material (Paper, Polyethylene, Others), By End-User Industry (Aerospace And Defense, Primary Metal, Electricals And Electronics, Automotive, Heavy Equipment, Metal Works, Others), And By Geography - Forecasts From 2023 To 2028

The volatile corrosion inhibitors (VCI) packaging market was valued at US$400 million in 2021.

Volatile Corrosion Inhibitors (VCI) packaging is a specialized method of corrosion protection for metal components during storage and transport. VCI packaging materials release volatile chemicals that form a protective molecular layer on the surface of metal items, preventing them from corroding or rusting. These inhibitors are incorporated into films, papers, bags, and wraps, creating an enclosed environment that safeguards the metal from corrosion without leaving any visible residue. VCI packaging is widely used in industries such as automotive, electronics, and aerospace to extend the shelf life and maintain the quality of metal parts in various storage and shipping conditions.

Introduction:

VCI packaging materials, including films, papers, bags, and wraps, release volatile chemicals that form a protective molecular layer on metal surfaces, preventing corrosion and rust. The VCI packaging market serves various industries, such as automotive, electronics, aerospace, and manufacturing, where the protection of metal parts from corrosion is critical to ensure product quality and performance. The market continues to grow as industries seek effective and environmentally friendly solutions to preserve the integrity of metal products throughout their supply chain.

Drivers:

• Increased focus on corrosion prevention: With the rising awareness of the damaging effects of corrosion on metals and the subsequent economic losses, industries are placing a higher emphasis on using effective corrosion protection solutions like VCI packaging. This driver is particularly significant in industries where metal components and parts are exposed to harsh environments or long-term storage.
• Expanding industrial sectors: The growth and diversification of industrial sectors, such as automotive, aerospace, oil and gas, electronics, and machinery, have led to an increased use of metal components and parts in manufacturing processes. As a result, the demand for reliable corrosion protection solutions like VCI packaging has also surged.
• Globalization and international trade: The growth of globalization and international trade has resulted in the transportation of metal goods across long distances and various climatic conditions. VCI packaging provides an effective solution to protect these goods from corrosion during transit and storage, driving its demand in the global market.
• Stringent regulations and quality standards: Many industries are subject to stringent regulations and quality standards, especially in sectors like automotive, defense, and aerospace. VCI packaging complies with these standards and helps industries meet the required corrosion protection criteria for their metal components and products.
• Growing e-commerce and online retail: The rise of e-commerce and online retail has increased the demand for secure and corrosion-resistant packaging solutions for metal goods. VCI packaging provides a reliable option to protect metal items during shipping and handling, further boosting its market growth.
• Sustainable and eco-friendly packaging: VCI packaging manufacturers are increasingly focusing on developing eco-friendly and recyclable materials to align with sustainability goals. The adoption of environmentally friendly VCI packaging solutions is driven by the growing preference for sustainable practices in various industries.
• Advances in VCI technology: Continuous research and development in VCI technology have led to the introduction of innovative and more effective corrosion protection solutions. These advancements have enhanced the performance of VCI packaging, making it a preferred choice for various applications.
• Cost-effective corrosion protection: VCI packaging offers a cost-effective solution compared to other traditional methods of corrosion prevention, such as coatings or inhibitors. Its ease of use and ability to protect multiple metal components in a single package add to its cost efficiency.
• Increased awareness of VCI benefits: As more industries recognize the benefits of VCI packaging, there is a growing trend of replacing conventional packaging methods with VCI solutions. The ability of VCI packaging to provide long-lasting corrosion protection without the need for surface treatments or coatings further drives its adoption.
• Expanding market presence of VCI packaging suppliers: The growing presence of VCI packaging suppliers and distributors worldwide has made these solutions more accessible to various industries. This expansion of the supplier network has contributed to the market's overall growth and penetration.

Products offered by key companies:

• Zerust launched a new line of VCI packaging films that are made from recycled materials. These films are just as effective at preventing corrosion as traditional VCI films, but they have a much lower environmental impact.
• ChemTreat launched a new line of VCI paper that is made from sustainably-sourced materials. This paper is also compostable, making it a more environmentally friendly option than traditional VCI paper.

Positive growth in the VCI Film segment:

The segment of the VCI packaging market that is experiencing significant growth is VCI Film. VCI Film offers several advantages, including its versatility, ease of use, and ability to conform to various shapes and sizes of metal components, providing a tight and secure protective barrier against corrosion. Additionally, advancements in VCI film technology have led to the development of high-performance and cost-effective films that cater to the diverse needs of industries like aerospace and defense, automotive, electricals and electronics, and heavy equipment. As companies increasingly recognize the importance of corrosion prevention and seek reliable and efficient solutions, the demand for VCI Film has surged, driving its rapid growth in the VCI packaging market.

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to hold a significant share:

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to dominate the VCI packaging market share. Several factors contribute to this dominance, including the region's large manufacturing base across industries such as automotive, electronics, aerospace, and heavy equipment. As these industries witness steady growth and international trade increases, the demand for effective corrosion protection solutions like VCI packaging rises. Additionally, the Asia-Pacific region is home to emerging economies, rapid industrialization, and supportive government initiatives that encourage the adoption of advanced packaging technologies. These factors create a favorable environment for the expansion of the VCI packaging market, making the Asia-Pacific region the key driver of its growth and market share.

Key developments:

• In July 2023, Daubert Europe launched Premium Metal-Guard® RC VCI packaging film with 30% recycled content that provides top-notch corrosion protection for metals during storage and shipment. It meets EU mandates as a non-taxable plastic, making it an environmentally friendly and effective choice for sustainable packaging.
• In May 2023, Chemcoaters launched FeGuard, a thin-film coating for cold-rolled and hot-rolled pickled and oiled steel, providing significant corrosion protection and competing with galvanized substrates. FeGuard offers anti-fingerprint properties and lubricity, with potential applications in various markets. ASTM B117 test results are available on their website.

Key Segment:

• By Product
  • VCI Paper
  • VCI Film
    • Stretch
    • Shrink
    • Sheet
  • VCI Bags
    • Flat
    • Gusseted
    • Zipper
  • Foam
  • Others
• By Material
  • Paper
  • Polyethylene
  • Others
• By End-User Industry
  • Aerospace and Defense
  • Primary Metal
  • Electricals and Electronics
  • Automotive
  • Heavy Equipment
  • Metal Works
  • Others
• By Geography
  • North America
    • United States
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • South America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Others
  • Europe
    • United Kingdom
    • Germany
    • France
    • Italy
    • Spain  
    • Others
  • Middle East and Africa
    • Saudi Arabia
    • UAE
    • Others
  • Asia Pacific
    • Japan
    • China
    • India
    • South Korea
    • Taiwan
    • Thailand
    • Indonesia
    • Others