The world-leading
biocide-free, foul release coating revolutionised the coatings industry when it
was launched by AkzoNobel in 2013, and has been applied to more than 3,000
vessels since then.
Due to the high
performance of the biocide free technology, demand has risen steeply in the
past 18 months as ship owners work to cut CO2 emissions to comply with
new carbon regulations and look for proven solutions.
Last year the
International Marine Organization (IMO) announced new carbon targets for the
fleet, which include a 20% reduction in emissions by 2030, a 70% reduction by
2040, compared to 2008 levels, and the ultimate goal of net-zero emissions by
2050.
Pioneering Intersleek 1100SR was the world’s first
biocide-free fouling control coating featuring patented slime release
technology that tackles micro-fouling on ships’ hulls.
The technology
maintains performance through the docking cycle without the use of biocides and
delivers outstanding macro and micro fouling control with improved static
resistance, even in warm waters.
Slime that builds up
during docking is released when the vessel travels through the water, therefore
reducing drag, improving fuel efficiency and reducing CO2 emissions.
Intersleek was
launched in 1996 as the first patented biocide-free coating for the shipping
industry.
Intersleek 425 evolved
to 700 in 1999 to address the need for foul release in deep sea vessels. Eight
years later the 900 version launched with original fluoropolymer technology to
ensure the foul release was available for all vessels above 10 knots.
In 2013, Intersleek
1100SR became the optimal slime release for all vessels, even in warm winters
and slow steaming and has set the standard for foul release technology in the
industry over the past decade.
Chris Birkert,
AkzoNobel’s Marine Coatings Segment Manager, said: “Our groundbreaking
Intersleek range has set new standards for efficiency, performance and
sustainability in the marine industry when it comes to biocide free
performance. “Together with our customers, Intersleek has the largest foul
release track record, gathered from 20 years of vessel performance data that
proves our Intersleek coatings have helped save ship owners $19.6bn dollars in
fuel costs and 103 million tonnes of CO2. to help them hit carbon targets.
“This incredible saving includes $8 billion in fuel
bills and 41 million tonnes of CO2 from Intersleek 1100SR over the past
10 years.”