Zinc rich primer coatings both organic and inorganic are extensively used in highly corrosive environments as part of high performance coating systems. During the 60’s and the 70’s zinc rich epoxy primers dominated the market. Later zinc ethyl silicate primers took over this role because of the increased cathodic protection over zinc-rich epoxies but nowadays it appears as if zinc epoxy primers have made a comeback. Some of the advantages of zinc epoxies compared to Inorganic Zinc Silicates are the less demanding curing conditions (epoxies will cure at low humidity) and they are more forgiving of over-application. Traditional Inorganic Zinc Silicates cure very slowly and are susceptible to mud-cracking even with small overages in film build. Inorganic Zinc Silicates have proven performance advantages over zinc-rich epoxies but application limitations described earlier limit their use.It is the aim of this paper to describe novel additives and the subsequent testing which render previous application limitations inapplicable. Much research and development has been done to improve mud-crack resistance of Inorganic Zinc Silicates in years past. Overall that research has led to minor improvements. The research carried out recently has shown drastic improvement (up to 80%) in mud-cracking resistance. In addition these additives have shortened dry to re-coat times of Inorganic Zinc Silicates by nearly half.All these benefits can be achieved with novel additives which are specifically designed to provide durability productivity and improved mechanical performance.