New Eco-Friendly Zinc Anodes: Environmental Innovation and Sustainability

Growing environmental concerns have driven the industry and engineering professionals to develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly technical solutions. In this context, Zinc-it Maritime Spares™, a Portuguese brand of sacrificial anodes, has partnered with the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, sponsoring metallurgical engineering internships to create new cadmium-free and more environmentally friendly alloys. We have closely collaborated with the University and various shipyards, testing new compositions both in the laboratory and real operating conditions. These investigations have led to the development of two new metal alloys that could replace traditional cadmium-containing ones used in the production of sacrificial anodes. The progress in developing cadmium-free zinc alloys not only protects the environment but also promotes more sustainable industrial practices. As a result of these collaborations, we have launched two eco-friendly lines of anodes: the Blue line, created in 2022/2023, and the Enviro line, developed in 2024, both in collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto. These compositions are advancing successfully in testing and demonstrate their potential in real-world applications.

Currently, the anodes of the Blue line are being tested at sea in collaboration with the Samuel e Filhos Shipyard in Vila do Conde. The molds of these anodes have been installed on a professional fishing vessel.

Meanwhile, the anodes of the Enviro line are undergoing laboratory tests and salt chamber trials. These tests aim to evaluate the performance and durability of the anodes in demanding marine environments, ensuring effective corrosion protection for various vessels. Validating the efficacy of these anodes is essential for their future application in the fishing industry and other areas of the maritime sector. This innovation not only complies with current environmental regulations but also addresses social and ecological concerns, positioning itself as a new standard in safer and more sustainable maritime practices. Manufactured in Portugal with high-purity materials, our anodes guarantee the highest standards of quality and sustainability. The results of laboratory tests, combined with the experience of Nordic countries and Japan, as well as ongoing sea trials, are encouraging and support the introduction of these products to the market.

To those adventurers who, like us, are eager to drive sustainable development: join our journey and discover the quality of our anodes. Visit our website and contact us for more information.