Biocide-free hull coating targets fuel savings
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- Published on Thursday, 02 April 2026 06:43
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New hull coating uses a low-VOC formulation and biocide-free fouling protection for medium- to high-activity vessels
Nippon Paint Marine has launched Aquaterras 1100, a biocide-free hull coating that, according to the company, combines a low-volatile organic compound formulation with a surface structure designed to reduce the attachment of marine organisms.
The company said the coating complies with regulations in major shipbuilding markets, including China and South Korea.
Aquaterras 1100 uses HydroPhix, described as “a micro-domain structure that combines hydrophilic and hydrophobic structures that reduce the ability of marine organisms to attach to hull surfaces, ensuring long-lasting fouling protection without the use of biocides.”
Nippon Paint Marine said the coating is intended to support lower fuel consumption and emissions by reducing hull resistance and is the first coating in the range to feature advanced fouling control, which Nippon Paint Marine described as “a unique silicone-modified binder technology that creates a smooth, glossy coating finish to prevent fouling without using biocides.”
The coating film is said to be resistant to mechanical damage and is intended to maintain performance in harsh operating conditions.
HydroCure, described by Nippon Paint Marine as a self-renewing, self-smoothing mechanism, is also included in the formulation and “creates a dynamic surface layer that continuously exposes a fresh, active surface to prevent marine growth, maintain optimal hull smoothness and reduce hydrodynamic drag.”
This coating is said to be suitable for application in drydock and newbuilding projects and has been seen to be compatible with ROV cleaning in early testing.
Nippon Paint Marine president Gladys Goh said, “Aquaterras 1100 is a next-generation biocide-free fouling protection developed to help our customers achieve their sustainability goals and ensure compliance with increasingly stringent regulations.”
Ms Goh added, “Our R&D team is committed to developing products that continue to meet the needs of our customers.”
In the same statement, Ms Goh said, “Working together to deliver this development in our hull coating technology, they have provided shipowners with one of the most effective and impactful clean technologies available today.”
Nippon Paint Marine said its Aquaterras range is “the world’s first biocide-free self-polishing hull coating” and that it delivers “up to 15% fuel savings”, and the range had been independently tested by PML Applications, which the company said confirmed it is safe for marine life.