PPG plans for future environmental standards with its range of copper-free antifouling coatings.
The Sigma Nexeon range is designed to provide a complete copper-free antifouling solution. Sigma Nexeon710 is the antifouling solution for operational vessels and can be applied during construction and dry dockings. For new-buildings where outfitting takes longer than six months, a high activity copper-free topcoat antifouling, Sigmma Nexeon 750 is specified.
Both products combine unique self-polishing zinc-acrylate binder technology with high performance to help protect ships during the new-building process and while in service.
A key benefit of Sigma Nexeon copper-free antifouling according to the manufacturer is its property of ‘smoothness from start’. Thanks to the absence of copper, the levelling and smoothness right after application is significantly improved, delivering better fuel efficiency from the start. Third party testing with universities and test institutes in Korea and Japan has confirmed the properties and performance of the Sigma Nexeon antifouling, the manufacturer claims. From these studies, PPG has classified Sigma Nexeon as a ‘low friction antifouling’.
Another benefit: excellent cosmetic appearance, thanks to the absence of copper, there is no so called ‘whitening’ effect. Sijmen Visser adds: “For prolonged outfitting periods, common for new-building FPSOs, drill ships and offshore structures and also for shorter outfitting periods of general commercial ships, there is an increasing demand for vessels to look good at delivery both above and below the water line. Sigma Nexeon 710 and 750 are ideal as initial and finishing coats to keep vessel hulls clean under water whilst providing a brand new cosmetic finish above the water line.”
The Sigma Nexeon antifouling was recently applied to the underwater hulls of four new-building drill ships, Norbe VIII, Norbe IX, Norbe X and Norbe XI in operation offshore Brazil for Odebrecht Oil & Gas Limited.
