International Paint introduced the foul release technology,
Intersleek 900.
Aimed to deliver higher performance standards with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, Intersleek 900 is a unique patented fluoropolymer foul release coating which represents the very latest advances in fouling control technology, significantly improving upon the performance of the silcone-based system Intersleek 700.
Intersleek 900 has foul release capabilities and good resistance to mechanical damage. For the very first time all vessels above 10 knots, including scheduled ships, tankers, bulkers, general cargo ships and feeder containers can now benefit from foul release technology.
Compared to the Intersleek 700 silicone based system, Intersleek 900 is designed to be 25 percent smoother and provides 38 percent coefficient of friction; has up to 80 better static fouling resistance; 40% better foul release properties; 50% reduction in slime; 100% better hold up; 35% higher gloss; 60% reduction in overspray and 60% better abrasion resistance.
In terms of fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, Intersleek® 900 offers predicted savings* of 2% in comparison to Intersleek 700 and 6% in comparison to SPC antifoulings. The potential exists for even greater savings in comparison to controlled depletion antifoulings.
For a single VLCC currently coated with an SPC antifouling this could mean savings of over 4,500 tons of fuel, a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of over 14,000 tons and US $1.2 million over a five year period.
The absence of biocides brings cost advantages at the next drydocking on treatment and disposal costs of wash water and blasting abrasive. Durable and flexible with good resistance to mechanical damage means options on drydocking schedule and control of hull roughness.