Chemical-Resistant Protective Coatings
Protect your facility from aggressive chemical exposure with proven protective coating systems engineered for the most demanding industrial environments.
Expert Chemical-Resistant Coating Solutions
When your facility handles aggressive chemicals, acids, caustics, or solvents, standard coatings simply won't survive. Moorhouse Coating specializes in advanced chemical-resistant protective coatings that stand up to the most demanding industrial environments.
With over 25 years of experience in industrial coatings, we've protected hundreds of chemical storage tanks, processing facilities, and containment areas throughout Arizona. Our team understands the critical importance of proper coating selection, application, and testing for chemical service applications.
From pharmaceutical clean rooms to chemical processing plants, we provide comprehensive coating solutions that protect your assets, ensure regulatory compliance, and maximize equipment lifespan. Every project includes detailed chemical compatibility analysis, certified surface preparation, and rigorous quality testing.
Chemical Storage Coating Service & Solutions
Chemical Storage Tank Coating Systems
Our chemical storage coating service provides comprehensive protection for both above-ground storage tanks (AST) and underground storage tanks (UST) across diverse industrial applications. Whether you're storing concentrated acids, aggressive caustics, or volatile solvents, we deliver coating systems engineered for long-term chemical resistance and structural integrity.
Above-Ground Storage Tanks (AST)
Above-ground chemical storage tanks face unique challenges including UV exposure, temperature cycling, and atmospheric moisture. Our AST coating systems provide:
- Exterior Protection: Weather-resistant topcoats with UV stabilization, preventing chalking and color fade while maintaining chemical barrier properties
- Interior Linings: 100% solids epoxy and novolac systems offering superior chemical resistance for full immersion service
- Thermal Management: Heat-reflective coatings reducing internal temperatures and extending coating life in hot climates
- Corrosion Prevention: Multi-coat systems with specialized primers for steel substrate protection
Underground Storage Tanks (UST)
Underground tank systems require specialized coating solutions to withstand soil chemistry, groundwater exposure, and cathodic protection systems. Our UST services include:
- Cathodic Protection Compatible: Coatings engineered to work with impressed current and sacrificial anode systems
- Moisture Resistance: Impermeable barrier systems preventing groundwater infiltration and external corrosion
- EPA Compliance: Coating systems meeting 40 CFR Part 280 requirements for UST corrosion protection
- Interior Chemical Resistance: High-build linings for full immersion in aggressive stored chemicals
Vertical vs. Horizontal Tank Applications: Vertical storage tanks present different coating challenges than horizontal configurations. Vertical tanks experience hydrostatic pressure gradients requiring thicker coatings at lower elevations, while horizontal tanks need uniform coating thickness with special attention to saddle support areas and bottom sections where chemicals can pool. Our applicators understand these critical differences and adjust coating specifications accordingly.
Interior vs. Exterior Coating Requirements: Interior tank linings face continuous chemical exposure, requiring high-performance systems like 100% solids epoxy, vinyl ester, or glass flake coatings for immersion service. Exterior coatings prioritize weather resistance, UV stability, and corrosion prevention, using systems like epoxy primers with polyurethane topcoats. Our chemical storage coating service addresses both requirements with properly matched coating systems for complete tank protection.
Secondary Containment Coating Systems
Secondary containment systems serve as the critical last line of defense against environmental contamination from chemical spills and tank failures. Our specialized coating solutions ensure these containment areas maintain structural integrity and impermeability when called upon to contain hazardous materials.
Bund Walls and Dike Linings
Bund walls and containment dikes must withstand both the chemicals they contain and environmental weathering. Our bund wall coating systems provide:
- Chemical Impermeability: Seamless coating barriers preventing chemical migration into concrete and soil substrates
- Structural Flexibility: Coatings with elongation properties accommodating concrete expansion, contraction, and minor cracking
- Multi-Chemical Resistance: Broad spectrum protection for facilities storing multiple chemical types
- Long-Term Durability: Systems designed for 15-20 year service life in harsh chemical exposure conditions
Spill Containment Areas: Beyond tank containment, spill containment areas around chemical handling zones, loading docks, and transfer stations require immediate chemical resistance. We apply rapid-cure coating systems allowing quick return to service while providing protection against acids, caustics, solvents, and petroleum products. These high-build floor coatings create seamless surfaces with integral cove bases, eliminating joints where chemicals could penetrate.
EPA Compliance Requirements: Our chemical resistance coating service ensures compliance with EPA regulations including 40 CFR Part 112 (SPCC) and 40 CFR Part 264 (RCRA) secondary containment standards. We provide documentation demonstrating coating impermeability, chemical compatibility, and structural adequacy for regulatory inspections. All containment coatings meet the EPA requirement to contain 110% of the largest tank volume or 10% of total storage capacity, whichever is greater.
Double-Wall Tank Systems: For facilities requiring maximum environmental protection, we coat the interstitial space in double-wall tank systems. These specialized applications demand thin-film coatings that won't interfere with leak detection systems while providing corrosion protection. Our vacuum-tight coating systems maintain the integrity of pressurized or vacuum monitoring systems while protecting steel from atmospheric corrosion.
Chemical Compatibility Reference Guide
Selecting the appropriate coating system requires understanding chemical compatibility across different exposure conditions. This reference guide provides coating recommendations for common industrial chemicals. For specific applications or chemical mixtures, consult our technical team for comprehensive compatibility testing.
| Chemical Type | Recommended Coating System | Temperature Range | Service Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sulfuric Acid (concentrated) | Glass Flake Vinyl Ester | 32°F to 180°F | Full Immersion |
| Hydrochloric Acid (30%) | 100% Solids Novolac Epoxy | 40°F to 150°F | Full Immersion |
| Nitric Acid (concentrated) | Modified Phenolic Epoxy | 32°F to 120°F | Splash/Spill |
| Sodium Hydroxide (50%) | Amine-Cured Epoxy | 60°F to 180°F | Full Immersion |
| Potassium Hydroxide | High-Build Epoxy | 40°F to 160°F | Full Immersion |
| Acetone / MEK | Glass Flake Vinyl Ester | 0°F to 140°F | Splash/Spill |
| Methanol / Ethanol | Novolac Epoxy | -20°F to 150°F | Full Immersion |
| Xylene / Toluene | Glass Flake Epoxy | 32°F to 160°F | Limited Immersion |
| Diesel Fuel / Biodiesel | Polyamide Epoxy | -40°F to 180°F | Full Immersion |
| Gasoline / Petroleum | 100% Solids Epoxy | -20°F to 150°F | Full Immersion |
| Hydraulic Oil | Epoxy-Polyamide | 0°F to 200°F | Full Immersion |
| Bleach (Sodium Hypochlorite) | Vinyl Ester | 50°F to 120°F | Full Immersion |
| Ammonia Solutions | Modified Epoxy | 32°F to 140°F | Full Immersion |
| Phosphoric Acid | Bisphenol A Epoxy | 40°F to 160°F | Full Immersion |
| Acetic Acid | Novolac Epoxy | 32°F to 150°F | Full Immersion |
| Chlorinated Solvents | Glass Flake Vinyl Ester | 32°F to 120°F | Splash/Spill |
Important Note: Chemical compatibility depends on concentration, temperature, contact duration, and combined exposures. This chart provides general guidance only. Always consult with our technical team for specific application recommendations and conduct compatibility testing when dealing with chemical mixtures or unusual service conditions.
Chemical Storage Coating Application Process
Proper application methodology is critical for chemical-resistant coating performance. Our NACE-trained applicators follow rigorous protocols ensuring optimal adhesion, complete coverage, and long-term chemical resistance in storage tank and containment applications.
1 Surface Preparation (SSPC-SP 10 / NACE No. 2)
Chemical storage coating service demands near-white metal blast cleaning (SSPC-SP 10) for steel substrates, removing all mill scale, rust, and contaminants while creating an anchor profile of 2-4 mils. This aggressive preparation ensures maximum coating adhesion in chemically aggressive environments.
- Abrasive Selection: Garnet, aluminum oxide, or steel grit selected based on substrate and profile requirements
- Profile Measurement: Testex tape or digital profile gauge verification ensuring proper anchor pattern
- Cleanliness Testing: Bresle salt contamination testing ensuring chloride levels below 7 µg/cm²
- Humidity Control: Surface temperature maintained 5°F above dew point preventing flash rusting
- Concrete Preparation: Shotblasting or scarification achieving CSP 3-5 profile for containment floors and walls
2 Multi-Coat System Application
Chemical resistance coating systems typically require three coats: primer, intermediate, and finish coat. Each layer serves specific functions in the overall protection system, with precise dry film thickness (DFT) requirements.
- Primer Coat (3-5 mils DFT): Penetrating epoxy primer ensuring substrate adhesion and preventing underfilm corrosion
- Intermediate Coat (10-15 mils DFT): High-build chemical barrier coat providing primary chemical resistance and thickness
- Topcoat (5-10 mils DFT): Chemical-resistant finish providing final barrier and smooth, cleanable surface
- Application Methods: Plural component spray equipment for large surfaces, brush and roller for detail work and repairs
- Induction Times: Strict adherence to manufacturer pot life and induction time requirements
- Recoat Windows: Careful timing between coats ensuring proper intercoat adhesion (typically 12-48 hours depending on temperature)
3 Holiday Detection Testing
Holiday detection (pinhole testing) identifies coating defects that could allow chemical penetration to the substrate. This critical quality control step ensures complete, continuous coating coverage.
- Low Voltage Testing: Wet sponge testing at 67.5V per mil of coating thickness for conductive substrates
- High Voltage Testing: Spark testing for non-conductive coatings and thick film systems over 20 mils DFT
- 100% Coverage: Complete surface testing with overlap ensuring no areas are missed
- Defect Repair: Immediate repair of all detected holidays, followed by re-testing of repair areas
- Documentation: Complete testing records including voltage settings, equipment calibration, and defect locations
4 Quality Assurance Protocols
Our comprehensive QA program ensures every chemical storage coating service project meets or exceeds industry standards and manufacturer specifications.
- Daily Documentation: Application logs recording environmental conditions, material batch numbers, and coating thickness readings
- DFT Measurement: Magnetic or ultrasonic gauge readings at manufacturer-specified density (minimum 5 readings per 100 sq ft)
- Adhesion Testing: Pull-off testing or cross-cut adhesion verification per ASTM D4541 or D3359
- Visual Inspection: 100% visual inspection for sags, runs, holidays, and coating defects before system acceptance
- Environmental Monitoring: Continuous tracking of temperature, humidity, and dew point throughout application
- Material Certification: Mill certificates and material conformance documentation for all coating products
5 NACE Standards Compliance
Our chemical resistance coating service strictly adheres to NACE International (now AMPP) standards ensuring professional application practices and long-term coating performance.
- NACE No. 2 / SSPC-SP 10: Near-white blast cleaning standard for maximum coating adhesion in chemical service
- NACE RP0188: Discontinuity (holiday) testing of new protective coatings on conductive substrates
- NACE SP0188: Protective coating application standards including environmental condition limits
- Certified Inspectors: NACE Coating Inspector Program (CIP) Level 2 certified inspection services available
- Applicator Training: NACE-certified applicators with specialized chemical resistance coating training
- Documentation Standards: Complete inspection records meeting NACE and owner specification requirements
Why Professional Application Matters
Chemical storage coating failures typically result from improper surface preparation, incorrect mixing ratios, inadequate film thickness, or contamination during application. Our systematic approach, trained personnel, and rigorous quality control eliminate these failure modes, ensuring your chemical storage coating service investment provides decades of reliable protection. Every project includes comprehensive documentation suitable for regulatory compliance, insurance requirements, and asset management systems.
Industries We Serve
Specialized chemical-resistant coating services for diverse industrial applications requiring maximum chemical protection.
Chemical Storage Tanks & Containment
Above-ground and underground chemical storage tanks, secondary containment areas, bulk storage facilities, &chemical warehouses requiring specialized chemical storage coating service for acids, caustics, and solvents.
Chemical Processing Plants
Process vessels, piping, containment areas, &equipment exposed to aggressive chemicals requiring specialized protective coating systems.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Clean rooms, process equipment, &manufacturing areas requiring chemical resistance while meeting FDA and GMP regulatory requirements.
Wastewater Treatment Facilities
Digesters, clarifiers, chemical feed areas, &treatment equipment exposed to acids, caustics, &biological environments.
Laboratory & Research Facilities
Fume hoods, lab benches, chemical storage areas, &research equipment requiring resistance to various chemicals and easy decontamination.
Metal Finishing & Plating Shops
Plating tanks, chemical baths, ventilation systems, &process equipment exposed to acids, bases, &metal finishing chemicals.
Food & Beverage Processing
Processing equipment, cleaning stations, &production areas requiring resistance to acids, sanitizers, &FDA-compliant chemical exposure.
Our Chemical Coating Process
A systematic approach ensuring optimal chemical resistance and long-term performance in aggressive environments.
Chemical Exposure Assessment
Comprehensive analysis of chemical exposure conditions including types, concentrations, temperatures, &contact duration to determine coating requirements.
Coating System Selection
Selection of optimal chemical-resistant coating system based on compatibility testing, performance requirements, &environmental conditions.
Advanced Surface Preparation
Professional surface preparation including abrasive blasting, chemical cleaning, &profile creation to achieve optimal adhesion for chemical service.
Multi-Coat System Application
Precision application of primer, intermediate, &topcoat systems using specialized equipment with careful attention to film thickness and cure conditions.
Performance Testing & Validation
Comprehensive testing including adhesion, thickness, holiday detection, &chemical immersion testing to validate system performance before service.
Why Choose Our Chemical Coating Services
Proven Chemical Expertise
25+ years specializing in chemical-resistant coatings with extensive knowledge of compatibility, application, and performance requirements.
Certified Application Standards
NACE-trained applicators following SSPC and manufacturer specifications for optimal coating performance and longevity.
Comprehensive Testing & Validation
Rigorous quality control including adhesion testing, film thickness measurement, and holiday detection for guaranteed protection.
24/7 Emergency Response
Rapid response team available for chemical spill damage and coating failures requiring immediate attention and repair.
Related Resources
Industrial Coatings Complete Guide 2025
Comprehensive guide covering chemical-resistant systems, application methods, and compliance requirements for industrial facilities.
Read More →Food Processing vs Chemical Storage Coatings Comparison
Detailed side-by-side comparison of coating requirements, regulatory compliance, and performance specifications for different applications.
Read More →Chemical Storage Coating Projects
Real-world examples of our chemical storage tank and containment coating expertise across major industrial facilities.
Houston Chemical Plant
850,000 sq ft petrochemical processing facility with advanced chemical-resistant coatings
Key Achievements:
- Zero safety incidents with 55 specialists
- Advanced chemical-resistant epoxy & urethane systems
- 100% OSHA and EPA compliance
Dow Chemical Facility
850,000 sq ft chemical processing facility with specialized coating systems
Key Achievements:
- Zero incidents - 114,000 man-hours
- Glass-flake epoxy & novolac systems for extreme exposure
- Dow Chemical Contractor Safety Excellence Award
Proven Chemical Storage Coating Service Excellence
Our chemical storage coating service portfolio demonstrates our expertise in protecting tanks, containment systems, and processing facilities from aggressive chemical environments. From above-ground storage tanks (AST) to underground storage tanks (UST), secondary containment systems to chemical processing equipment, we deliver EPA-compliant, NACE-certified coating solutions engineered for decades of reliable protection.
Chemical-Resistant Coatings - Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What chemical storage coating services do you provide?
Our chemical storage coating service includes tank linings, secondary containment coatings, chemical warehouse floor systems, and bulk storage facility protection. We specialize in above-ground and underground storage tank linings for acids, caustics, solvents, and specialty chemicals, with EPA-compliant systems for environmental protection and spill containment. Our chemical storage coating service meets NACE standards and includes comprehensive surface preparation, multi-coat application, and holiday detection testing. <a href='/blog/industrial-coatings-complete-guide-2025'>Learn more about industrial coating systems</a>.
Q2: What types of chemicals can your coatings resist?
Our chemical-resistant coatings can withstand exposure to acids (hydrochloric, sulfuric, nitric), caustics (sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide), solvents (acetone, methanol, xylene), oils, greases, and specialized chemicals. We select specific coating systems based on your chemical exposure requirements and concentration levels. For detailed chemical compatibility information, see our <a href='/blog/food-processing-vs-chemical-storage-coatings-comparison-2025'>chemical storage coatings comparison guide</a>.
Q3: How do you determine the right coating system for specific chemicals?
We conduct comprehensive chemical compatibility testing and review exposure conditions including concentration, temperature, contact time, and frequency. Our technical team evaluates chemical resistance charts, conducts immersion testing when needed, and selects systems with proven performance in similar applications. Our <a href='/blog/industrial-coatings-complete-guide-2025'>complete industrial coatings guide</a> details the selection process.
Q4: Can chemical-resistant coatings handle temperature extremes?
Yes, we offer systems that maintain chemical resistance at temperatures from -40°F to 400°F+ depending on the specific coating. High-temperature chemical-resistant systems are available for process equipment, while low-temperature systems work in refrigerated or outdoor environments.
Q5: What surface preparation is required for chemical-resistant coatings?
Surface preparation is critical for chemical-resistant coatings and typically includes abrasive blasting to near-white metal (SSPC-SP 10), concrete profiling, degreasing, and moisture removal. Proper preparation ensures optimal adhesion and long-term chemical resistance performance.
Q6: How long do chemical-resistant coatings last in aggressive environments?
Lifespan depends on chemical exposure severity, but properly applied systems typically last 10-20+ years. Factors affecting longevity include chemical concentration, contact time, temperature, mechanical wear, and maintenance practices. We provide performance warranties based on specific exposure conditions.
Q7: Do you provide emergency repair services for chemical spill damage?
Yes, we offer 24/7 emergency response for chemical spill damage and coating failures. Our rapid response team can provide temporary protection measures and permanent coating repairs to prevent further damage and restore chemical resistance quickly.
Q8: What's the difference between food processing and chemical storage coatings?
Food processing coatings must meet FDA and USDA compliance with antimicrobial properties and easy cleaning, while chemical storage coatings focus on maximum chemical resistance for acids, solvents, and caustics. Storage coatings prioritize impermeability and containment, while food processing systems balance chemical resistance with sanitation requirements. Read our detailed <a href='/blog/food-processing-vs-chemical-storage-coatings-comparison-2025'>food processing vs chemical storage coatings comparison</a> for complete specifications.
Q9: What coating systems do you recommend for above-ground storage tanks?
For above-ground storage tanks (AST), we recommend multi-coat systems including 100% solids epoxy or novolac epoxy interior linings for chemical immersion service, and weather-resistant exterior coatings with UV stabilization. The specific system depends on stored chemicals, temperature extremes, and service conditions. Our chemical storage coating service includes complete AST protection with both interior chemical resistance and exterior corrosion prevention.
Q10: How do secondary containment coatings ensure EPA compliance?
Our secondary containment coating systems ensure EPA compliance by providing impermeable barriers meeting 40 CFR Part 112 (SPCC) and 40 CFR Part 264 (RCRA) standards. We apply seamless coatings to bund walls, dike linings, and spill containment areas with documented impermeability testing. All systems meet EPA requirements to contain 110% of the largest tank volume or 10% of total storage capacity, with complete documentation for regulatory inspections.
Q11: What is holiday detection testing and why is it necessary?
Holiday detection testing (also called pinhole testing) identifies microscopic coating defects that could allow chemical penetration to the substrate. Using low-voltage wet sponge or high-voltage spark testing, we perform 100% surface coverage inspection to locate and repair all coating discontinuities. This critical quality control step ensures complete chemical barrier protection and is required for tanks and containment systems storing hazardous materials.
Q12: Can you coat underground storage tanks (UST) for chemical service?
Yes, our chemical storage coating service specializes in underground storage tank (UST) protection. We apply interior chemical-resistant linings for full immersion service and exterior coatings compatible with cathodic protection systems. Our UST coatings meet 40 CFR Part 280 requirements, provide groundwater infiltration protection, and include moisture-resistant barrier systems designed for soil chemistry exposure. All UST coating work includes complete documentation for EPA compliance.
Have more questions? Contact our experts or call (855) 666-2628
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Learn More →Ready to Protect Your Facility?
Get a free consultation and quote for your chemical coating project. Our experts are ready to help you select the right system.