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Finish for exterior steel sculpture

adv.

"Clearcoats/Lacquers for Brass from G.J. Nikolas"

Q. I am looking for a finish for my steel sculpture. I have been using a product called Incralac ⇦ on eBay or Amazon [affil link] but am looking for alternatives. I need a finish that will withstand the rugged southwestern environment. It needs to be compatible with patinized, oxidized and pre-finished steel. I have had poor luck with automotive finishes as they deteriorate rapidly in the desert environment. Traditional waxes and penetrating oils dull the finish and require too much maintenance. Does anyone have any suggestions? All information is greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

"The Chemistry of Benzotriazole Derivatives"

on Amazon or eBay
or AbeBooks
(affil link)

A. Hi Greg.

Incralac is brass lacquer with a tarnish preventer for copper, called benzotriazole ⇦ on eBay or Amazon [affil link] , incorporated into the mix. The benzotriazole doesn't help you with steel, and there may be better clear coats for steel than brass lacquer. 2k (two-component) automotive clearcoat is probably good, and if you want a single-component clearcoat, Everbrite [a finishing.com supporting advertiser] or Protectaclear from Everbrite [a finishing.com supporting advertiser] would probably be good ones.

Luck & Regards,


Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
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