Rio Tinto – Gove Operations Roof Restoration
Extreme Climate Solution | Rust Conversion | Thermal Protection | Infrastructure Longevity
Project Overview
Located in the tropical Top End of Australia, Rio Tinto’s Gove operations were facing rapid roof deterioration caused by intense UV exposure, high humidity, and salt-laden air. The ageing roof was showing widespread corrosion, posing a risk to operational continuity and asset longevity.
Thermoshield was engaged to deliver a durable, thermally efficient roof coating system, designed to withstand the region’s extreme environmental conditions while extending the usable life of the asset.
Key Benefits Delivered
Corrosion Control & Surface Recovery
- Entire roof was pressure cleaned and treated with rust converter, stabilising corrosion and converting active rust into a sealed phosphate barrier.
- Followed by etch primer to further inhibit rust reactivation and bond the topcoat effectively.
- Enabled asset protection without the need for total roof replacement.
Thermal Insulation in Harsh Conditions
- Applied two full coats of Thermoshield ceramic membrane, creating a highly reflective, UV-resistant surface.
- Reduced internal heat transfer into the operational buildings.
- Improved workplace comfort while reducing reliance on HVAC systems.
Adapted for Industrial Conditions
- The system was tailored for remote-site resilience, ensuring longevity with minimal maintenance required post-application.
- Ceramic coating is resistant to UV breakdown, moisture ingress, and tropical mould formation.
Cost-Effective Asset Preservation
- Delivered a low-disruption, high-impact restoration process suited to industrial schedules.
- Postponed the need for full structural intervention by several years.
- Reduced future operational risks and maintenance costs.
Scope of Works
- High-pressure washing to remove debris, chalking, and loose rust
- Rust converter treatment across corroded areas
- Etch primer application to stabilise and seal substrate
- Application of two Thermoshield coats, forming a heat-reflective and moisture-resistant barrier
- Final inspection to ensure membrane integrity under Gove’s extreme conditions
Before & After Results
- Before: Roof surfaces showed widespread surface rust and chalking from intense exposure
- After: Uniform, bright Thermoshield membrane coating — sealed, reflective, and visually renewed
Client Outcome
“Thermoshield delivered a solution that performs in one of Australia’s most extreme environments — giving us back control of our maintenance schedule while improving internal heat conditions.”
This project demonstrates Thermoshield’s capacity to restore and protect industrial infrastructure in coastal, high-UV, high-humidity regions — with a long-life membrane that delivers measurable thermal and protective performance.
Contact Us
Thermoshield Australia Pty Ltd
Factory 11, 42 Mills Road, Dandenong, VIC 3175
Email: gavin@thermoshield.com.au
Phone: 0417 563 955
Website: thermoshield.com.au
