Resin Based Coating (RBC)

Aluminum-containing protective coatings as a cadmium replacement for aerospace applications

Process Description

Resin Based Coatings (RBC) are aluminum-containing protective coatings based on resin systems, specifically applied as corrosion protection systems in aerospace and defense. They serve as a functional alternative to traditional cadmium or chromate-based systems and are primarily used where electroplating processes are technically or regulatorily unsuitable.

At Aero-Coating, RBC is applied as an independent, qualified coating process, designed for repeatability and application-specific requirements. RBC systems consist of an organic binder (resin system), aluminum-containing pigments, and optional additives for adhesion and corrosion performance optimization. The protective effect is based on galvanic protection provided by aluminum, barrier protection of the resin system, and controlled coating thickness and application.

The coating is typically applied by spraying, dipping, or controlled application followed by curing, depending on specification and component geometry. Typical applications include aerospace components, components requiring corrosion protection without electroplated coatings, components with complex geometries, and supplemental protective systems within multi-layer coating architectures.

Advantages

Effective protection even on complex geometries
Environmentally and regulatorily future-proof
Suitable for aerospace and defense applications
Proven protective performance
Flexible application methods
Compatible with existing coating systems
Future-ready alternative to traditional coating solutions

Applicable Standards & Norms

EN 4474 / EN 4473
NAS 4006

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Frequently Asked Questions about Resin Based Coating (RBC)

Is RBC applied over an IVD Aluminum base layer?

No. RBC is an independent, qualified coating process based on resin systems with aluminum-containing pigments. It is applied as a functional alternative to cadmium or chromate-based systems — independent of any IVD base layer.

What is the advantage over electroplated processes?

RBC is environmentally and regulatorily future-proof, as it does not rely on galvanic electrolytes. Protection is based on galvanic effect of aluminum and the barrier function of the resin system. This makes RBC particularly suitable where cadmium or chromate can no longer be applied for technical or regulatory reasons.

How is RBC applied?

The process is typically applied by spraying, dipping, or controlled application followed by curing, depending on specification and component geometry. Coating thickness is applied under process control — particularly for fasteners, we use automated application methods.