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Having recently introduced Aquaterras, claimed to be the world’s first and only biocide-free self-polishing copolymer (SPC) antifouling coating system, Nippon Paint Marine is now actively targeting customers in the Middle East for the new product.
“Nippon Paint Marine has long been at the forefront of coatings technology,” commented John Drew, director, Nippon Paint Marine (Europe). “With the introduction of Aquaterras, we can provide shipowners and managers with an antifouling product that is not only free of biocides and heavy metals but can also further reduce fuel consumption through its ultra-smooth surface.”
Aquaterras has already been applied to a number of vessels in the cruise, containership and bulker markets and the company says it is keen to establish this coating across new geographical sectors, such as the Middle East. Drew adds, “The Middle East area has become an important focal point for our customers, especially following the rapid increase in drydock capacity. In order to strengthen our regional presence and improve product availability and technical services Nippon Paint Marine (Europe) will open a new sales and distribution office in the UAE, later this year.”
Since it was established in 2016, Nippon Paint Marine (Europe) and its 100% subsidiary Nippon Paint Marine (Turkey) have seen a considerable growth in sales. This due in part to the success of its fuel-saving A-LF Sea antifouling product, particularly in the LNG/LPG and cruise vessel segments.
Michel Wilckens, managing director, Nippon Paint Marine (Europe), added: “Since the market introduction of our unique low friction, hydrogel-based coatings in 2007, more than 3,000 vessels have been applied with this unique marine technology. We anticipate further growth as more ship operators apply the technology as a way of reducing fuel consumption to meet new emissions regulations.”
