VCI plastic: anticorrosion packaging solutions for industry

In demanding sectors such as automotive, aerospace, rail, wind energy, machine tools and defence, protecting high-value metal components is a critical challenge. Corrosion not only damages the product but also leads to cleaning costs, supply chain delays and risks during final assembly.

VCI (volatile corrosion inhibitor) plastic provides a highly effective and versatile solution, particularly suitable when flexible and airtight packaging is required, combining both a physical barrier and chemical protection in a single material.

In this article, we examine the main formats available – bags, sheets, rolls and tubes – their most common applications in industry, and the key criteria for selecting the most appropriate option depending on the type of component and its logistics environment.

For a broader perspective, explore our comprehensive guide on corrosion and anticorrosion packaging.

What is VCI plastic and how does it work

VCI plastic is manufactured from polyethylene (PE), into which the volatile corrosion inhibitor (VCI) is incorporated during the extrusion process, ensuring a homogeneous dispersion of the active agent. Once the packaging is applied, a constant and long-lasting protective vapour is released, capable of reaching internal areas and protecting metal surfaces without the need for oils or additional treatments.

When the packaging is sealed, it creates an environment saturated with corrosion-inhibiting molecules that form an invisible film against oxidation, even under demanding environmental conditions. Thanks to its flexibility, it adapts to parts of different sizes and shapes, delivering reliable and practical protection.

Compared to traditional coatings with greases or oils, VCI plastic offers significant additional advantages:

• Multimetal protection,
• Nitrite-free and free from substances harmful to workplace safety,
• Adaptable to parts with internal cavities and complex geometries,
• 100% recyclable material, available in both virgin and recycled plastic options,
• Translucent, allowing quick identification of contents and visual quality control without opening the package,
• Lightweight, clean and inert, suitable for parts that are assembled directly in sensitive environments,
• Resistant to external moisture,
• Enables sealing to improve tightness and boost the effectiveness of the VCI,
• Long-lasting corrosion protection,
• Proven performance in highly demanding industrial sectors.

Inviker’s VCI plastic products are endorsed by leading automotive manufacturers, ensuring performance, safety and reliability in every application.

VCI plastic formats

At Inviker we supply a wide range of VCI plastic formats, suitable for both manual processes and automated industrial packaging lines. All formats are 100% recyclable and can be manufactured either in virgin material or with up to 100% recycled content, while always meeting the technical standards required by each client.

Standard thicknesses range from 50 to 200 μm and, on request, additional treatments can be applied, such as UV protection for particularly demanding storage or transport environments.

Below, we outline the main available formats.

VCI plastic bags

A ready-to-use solution providing 360° protective coverage. Simply place the part inside, close the bag, and allow the VCI to take effect.

• Available in a wide range of sizes, including large-volume versions (over 10 m³).
• Closure options include tape, heat sealing, or zip system, depending on the application.

Learn more on our VCI bags product page.

VCI plastic sheets

Flat film cut to size, used as an intermediate layer or as direct flexible wrapping. Particularly effective for separating levels in stacked packaging or for quickly wrapping individual parts.

• Double-sided VCI protection in separator sheets ensures uniform coverage.
• Can be cut to custom sizes according to the dimensions of the part or packaging.

Discover more on our VCI sheets product page.

VCI plastic in rolls

A versatile format that can be cut to length and adapted to parts of different sizes. Ideal for continuous processes and integration into high-volume automated packaging lines.

• Available as flat film or semi-tubing.
• Suitable for large-scale packaging and applications requiring flexibility in the process.

VCI plastic tubing

Specifically designed for elongated components such as shafts, guides, or profiles.

• Enables quick and secure packaging.
• Reduces the need for additional closures (tape or heat sealing), optimising handling times.

Other VCI plastic formats

In addition to VCI bags, sheets, and tubing, Inviker offers other formats designed to meet more specific needs in industrial environments.

VCI stretch film

VCI stretch film, also available in reinforced versions with mesh or woven fabric, combines two essential functions for the industrial sector: corrosion protection for metals and secure load stabilisation during palletising.

Learn more about the benefits and applications of VCI stretch film in the corresponding section of our guide on corrosion and anticorrosive packaging.

VCI bubble wrap

VCI-treated bubble wrap provides dual protection:

• Mechanical, against impacts or abrasion during transport.
• Anticorrosive, thanks to the controlled release of vapour inhibitors.

This solution is particularly useful for delicate or high-value components and is suitable for the needs of a wide range of industrial sectors.

For further information, see our dedicated article on bubble wrap for industrial packaging.

Recommended industrial applications

VCI plastic is widely used to protect high-value metal parts during transportation and long-term storage. Its most common applications include:

• Individual protection of components: using VCI bags or tubing, parts are safeguarded against corrosion without the need for oils or subsequent cleaning.
  Ideal for fasteners, bearings, machined components or spare parts. Continuous tubing also provides flexibility for size variations, as it can be cut to length and adjusted to the actual volume, reducing empty space and optimising material use.
• Layer separation in stacked packaging: using VCI-treated sheets on both sides between each layer ensures uniform protection across all exposed metal surfaces.
• International exports: VCI plastic bags are used as inner packaging inside cardboard or wooden boxes, creating an effective barrier against humidity, organic materials and sudden climate changes.
• Automated packaging processes: both roll film and tube formats allow for continuous cutting and sealing, increasing efficiency in high-performance production lines.

Beyond corrosion protection, these formats also streamline operations, reduce costs and optimise the supply chain, since parts are ready for immediate use without additional cleaning.

Best practices for use

To achieve maximum performance from VCI plastic in industrial applications, it is recommended to:

• Always pack metal parts when they are clean and completely dry,
• Seal the bag, tube, or sheet tightly to maintain VCI saturation,
• Store packaged material in a dry place, protected from humidity and direct sunlight.

For further details, see our guide: how to correctly apply VCI materials in industrial environments.

VCI plastic bags, sheets, rolls, and tubes provide an effective solution for safeguarding the integrity of metal parts in demanding sectors. Their versatility, sustainability, and proven performance make VCI plastic a strategic ally in corrosion protection.

Choose the VCI plastic that best protects your product. Request your free sample or quotation today and discover how Inviker’s solutions can optimise your packaging.