Industrial Chemistry for Reliable Surface Pretreatment
NABU-Oberflächentechnik GmbH develops and supplies high-performance chemicals for the pretreatment of metal surfaces. Our products provide the technical foundation for reliable coating adhesion, effective corrosion protection, and consistently stable coating processes – particularly in preparation for powder coating.
Our pretreatment chemistry is precisely tailored to the substrate, plant design, and process parameters. It ensures clean, activated surfaces, reduces coating defects, and plays a key role in achieving reproducibility and overall process efficiency.
In close collaboration with our customers, we develop customized chemical solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing systems. In addition to product performance, we place strong emphasis on technical support, short decision-making processes, and continuous process optimization during ongoing operations.
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Our Chemical Solutions by Process Step
Chemical cleaners for the removal of oils, greases, and particulate contaminants. They create the basis for uniform processing and reliable coating adhesion.
Chemical pickling and activation processes for targeted surface activation. They improve the bonding of subsequent conversion and coating layers.
Chemical passivation processes to enhance corrosion resistance and stabilize treated surfaces.
Customized chemical solutions for special materials, specific process conditions, or complex plant configurations.
Looking to ensure reliable pretreatment processes?
Speak with our experts about your requirements – we will be happy to advise you.
Speak with our experts!
Chrome-Free Pretreatment
With Nabutan 310, we have been offering a proven solution for chrome-free aluminum pretreatment for over 20 years. As early as 1998, the company was among the pioneers of this technology in Germany. Its long-term durability has been confirmed in a GSB International outdoor exposure test in Florida: over a period of more than ten years, treated profiles withstood extreme climatic conditions without significant corrosion. Nabutan 310 is GSB-approved, free of hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)), and provides corrosion protection comparable to conventional chromating. It enables no-rinse processes, reduces operating costs, and improves both environmental and occupational safety. We provide comprehensive support to our customers in the implementation and optimization of chrome-free processes.
Environmentally Friendly Aluminum Pretreatment
Sustainable chemistry is the future of metal pretreatment. At NABU-Oberflächentechnik GmbH, environmentally responsible action is not a trend, but a core part of our corporate philosophy. We consistently use biodegradable raw materials and avoid environmentally and health-hazardous substances wherever technically feasible. We have been among the pioneers of chrome-free aluminum pretreatment since 1996. With our proven product Nabutan 310, we offer a high-performance and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional processes. Our “Green Chemistry” portfolio also includes a wide range of additional solutions. These are label-free or classified at most as irritant, phosphate-free, and particularly easy to treat in wastewater systems – ensuring safe processes and sustainable surface quality.
Metal Pretreatment
We develop specialty chemicals for the pretreatment of aluminum, zinc, magnesium, steel, and galvanized steel. Our portfolio includes cleaning and degreasing, pickling, passivation, paint stripping, as well as sealing processes in anodizing applications. Our focus is on sustainable, chrome-free processes for wet coating, powder coating, and coil coating. With Nabutan 310, we are among the first companies in Germany whose system has been approved by GSB International and Qualicoat. For steel applications, NABU offers cost-effective alternatives to zinc phosphating. An experienced team ensures expert advice and hands-on support on site.
Aluminum Pickling
Aluminum pickling is a critical step for achieving reliable coating adhesion and effective corrosion protection. In addition to the natural oxide layer, aluminum surfaces often contain a microcrystalline deformation layer formed during rolling or extrusion. This layer includes oxides and intermetallic phases that can negatively impact coating performance. Controlled pickling removes this layer and creates a uniformly active and homogeneous surface. For consistent and reproducible results, key process parameters such as aluminum concentration, chemical composition, temperature, pickling time, and overall process control must be precisely managed. Deviations may result in pickling defects such as etching marks, filiform corrosion, or adhesion failures. Both acidic and alkaline pickling processes are highly corrosive and require appropriate safety measures. When properly controlled, aluminum pickling provides the ideal foundation for durable, high-performance coatings.
Application Engineering & Service
Our application engineering team stands for practical support and sustainable process optimization. Our experts analyze pretreatment systems directly on site, support process transitions, and ensure long-term stable operations. In our in-house laboratory, bath samples are analyzed and coatings are comprehensively tested using standardized testing methods. Trial treatments prior to product implementation provide additional process reliability. Training sessions – either on site or at our technical center in Stulln – strengthen the expertise of your team. In addition, we support our customers with sustainable solutions such as IBC return systems and consulting for resource-efficient process management.
