Real-world performance data compiled from ships applied with International brand Intersleek 1100SR over the past 10 years shows the coating has cut ship fuel bills by US$ 8bn and reduced 41m tonnes of CO2 emissions.
The biocide-free foul release coating is claimed o have revolutionised the coatings industry when it was launched by AkzoNobel in 2013, and has since been applied to more than 3,000 vessels. Due to the performance of the technology, demand is said to have 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.
Intersleek 1100SR was the 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 is believed to deliver 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.
The original 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 was launched as a slime release for all vessels, even in warm winters and slow steaming.
Chris Birkert, AkzoNobel 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 $19.6bn dollars in fuel costs and 103 million tonnes of CO2. to help them hit carbon targets. This incredible saving includes US$ 8bn in fuel bills and 41m tonnes of CO2 from Intersleek 1100SR over the past 10 years.”
