| With increasing mechanisation, it was recognised as early as the 1930s that it is essential to use an antifreeze so that vehicles can be used without problems in winter. In spring, the antifreeze was then drained off and normal tap water was again added. These types of formulations only required a low level of corrosion inhibition, as the engines were built from grey (cast) iron and the radiators from brass.
After 1960 it was acknowledged that it is a better idea to leave antifreeze in the system even in summer to reduce corrosion. At that time, car manufacturers recommended that the antifreeze be changed after 1 year, and then later, after 2 years.
The latest technology then culminated in the development of formulations in Europe which, apart from the inhibitors benzoate, borax and nitrite, which had been used for a long time, also contained the non-ferrous metal inhibitors nitrate and silicate. Our tried and tested Genantin extra B or super is formulated on this basis. In the mid-seventies, because of the oil crisis, there was an increase in the use of aluminium alloys in the construction of engines and radiators to save weight. It soon emerged that aluminium materials, which are relatively soft and corrodible, require an increased amount of antifreeze. In the next few years, aluminium protection was therefore further improved, not least because of the special requirements and specifications of the automotive industry.
The continuing trend is towards the development of nitrite-free formulations.
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