VZ 2.0 is a highly corrosion-resistant steel substrate, hot-dip-coated in a specialized layer of Zinc, Aluminum, and about 3% Magnesium. While Aluzinc is quite impervious, the addition of Magnesium to this formula revolutionizes the metal’s ability to resist corrosion, especially on cut or raw edges. Over time as a cut edge of the metal is exposed, the Zinc and Magnesium work together to form a protective film, sealing the exposed steel substrate and protecting it from rust and corrosion.
How Does It Compare?
After extensively testing VZ 2.0 in our own facilities, Vego Garden sought the expertise of the world-renowned Texas A&M National Corrosion Laboratory to independently test the performance of their new material, comparing it to both their competitors and their own existing material. The study at Texas A&M confirmed that in neutral environments, Vego Garden’s V1 Aluzinc material and VZ 2.0 performances were comparable, and both performed better than our competitors’ current materials.
Where VZ 2.0 really shines is its performance in highly alkaline and highly acidic environments. As every gardener knows, different crops prefer different environments. The composting process releases ammonia gases, increasing the alkalinity of the soil, whereas many organic fertilizers contain manures and tend to be acidic. VZ 2.0’s anti-corrosion performance far outpaces its counterparts in these more extreme environments. Further, VZ 2.0 has been shown in lab tests to be superior in high heat and high humidity conditions.
Some Features You Already Love
The paint used for Vego Garden beds is from AkzoNobel, and is specially blended for the farming industry. They are the world-leading paint manufacturer; a merger between two companies, one of which is the company owned by and named for the chemist Nobel for whom the Peace Prize is named. Vego Garden paint is designed to withstand high ammonia environments, and provides a superior seal against animal manure and harsh fertilizers. Our paint is food-grade and USDA Certified.
Superior Heat Reflection
VZ 2.0 retains a superior albedo capacity. Albedo is another name for reflectivity, a measurement of how much light that hits a surface is reflected without being absorbed. Research shows that soil in galvanized steel stays at a more optimal, stable temperature when compared with wooden, concrete and dark plastic beds, which soak up summer sun during the day and stay hot into the night. Research also shows that galvanized steel beds have extra benefits including improved fruit set rate, blush color and maturity.
No Soil Contamination
While treated wood and plastic degrade under extreme temperatures, VZ 2.0 has been tested to ensure that it will not leach chemicals into the soil. This helps ensure the highest quality soil for organic gardening.
Sustainably Organic Material
With a long 20+ year life, VZ 2.0 is an environmentally-sustainable material. Not only is it 100% recyclable, steel is also the world’s most recycled material. The long lifespan reduces the environmental cost of producing and transporting replacement materials over time.
In Conclusion
At Vego Garden, they love to have fun, but never compromise on quality. Their beds are built with longevity in mind. They consider all possible factors when designing their products and are always striving to improve. So, as always, keep an eye out for additional innovations from the Vego Garden family!
