Magnet Materials & Coatings – Nickel, Epoxy, Rubber & Corrosion Resist

Welcome to the Aussie Magnets Magnet Materials & Coatings guide.

Magnet performance depends not only on the magnetic material itself, but also on the coating or finish applied to it. Different materials and coatings affect magnetic strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and suitability for different environments.

Understanding the difference between magnet materials and coatings helps you choose the right option for industrial, commercial, outdoor, and everyday applications.

These guides explain the most common magnet materials, coating types, and how they influence corrosion resistance and long-term performance.

Magnet Materials

Permanent magnets are made from several different materials, each with its own strengths and limitations. Common magnet materials include neodymium, ferrite, alnico, samarium cobalt, and flexible rubber magnetic materials.

These materials differ in magnetic strength, temperature resistance, brittleness, corrosion resistance, and cost. In many cases, the base magnet material determines the overall performance, while the coating provides added protection.

→ View Magnet Materials Guide

Nickel Coating

Nickel coating is one of the most common finishes used on neodymium magnets. It provides a bright metallic silver appearance and helps protect the magnet from moisture and minor surface wear.

Many neodymium magnets use a nickel-copper-nickel coating system, often abbreviated as Ni-Cu-Ni. This is suitable for many indoor and general-purpose applications.

→ View Nickel Coating Guide

Epoxy Coating

Epoxy coated magnets are designed to provide improved corrosion resistance compared to standard nickel-coated magnets. The epoxy layer creates an additional barrier against moisture and environmental exposure.

Epoxy coatings are often chosen for applications where magnets may be used in damp, humid, or more demanding environments.

→ View Epoxy Coating Guide

Rubber Coating

Rubber coated magnets combine magnetic performance with a protective outer layer that helps reduce scratching, improve grip, and provide better resistance to chipping and light environmental exposure.

They are commonly used for mounting, holding, and attachment applications where a softer contact surface is beneficial, especially on painted or delicate surfaces.

→ View Rubber Coating Guide

Zinc & Other Finishes

In addition to nickel, epoxy, and rubber coatings, magnets may also be supplied with zinc plating, gold plating, plastic coatings, or as part of stainless or steel magnetic assemblies.

Each finish offers different benefits in terms of appearance, corrosion protection, durability, and suitability for the intended environment.

→ View Zinc & Other Magnet Finishes Guide

Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion resistance is especially important when magnets are used outdoors, in humid environments, or anywhere they may be exposed to water, salt, or damaged surfaces.

Standard neodymium magnets require protective coatings because the base material is prone to corrosion if exposed. Ferrite and samarium cobalt magnets generally offer better natural resistance, while coatings help improve protection for other magnet types.

→ View Corrosion Resistance Guide

Choosing the Right Coating

The best coating depends on the application. For indoor general-purpose use, standard nickel coating is often suitable. For more demanding environments, epoxy, rubber coated, plastic coated, or assembly-based solutions may be more appropriate.

Choosing the correct combination of magnet material and coating helps improve reliability, safety, and service life.

→ View Choosing the Right Coating Guide

Understanding Magnet Materials & Coatings

Understanding how magnet materials and coatings work together makes it easier to choose a product that performs well in the intended environment.

Whether you need maximum strength, better corrosion resistance, or a softer protective finish, selecting the right material and coating combination can make a significant difference.

These guides are written by the technical team at Aussie Magnets, an Australian supplier of industrial, commercial and specialist magnets since 1989.