AkzoNobel marine coatings protect first sail-assisted Aframax tanker

The world’s first Aframax oil tanker with wind-assisted propulsion has been built in China, with AkzoNobel supplying 350,000 litres of International marine coatings.

Regarded as a major innovation in sustainable shipping, the entire Brands Hatch, including the underwater hull, deck and cargo oil tanks, features International’s high-performance products providing comprehensive protection and critical technical assurance for the tanker’s eco-efficient operation.

Built by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co Ltd, its three “intelligent fibreglass sails” are projected to cut fuel use by 12% a year and annual carbon emissions by 5,000 tons under normal operating conditions.

“The successful application of our coatings not only validates the performance of our International fouling control and anti-corrosive technologies,” said Rob Leslie, commercial director marine and protective coatings for AkzoNobel Greater China. “It also demonstrates the company’s commitment to enable decarbonisation through sustainable innovation.”

The products used included Intercept 8500 LPP, one of the highest-performing fouling control technologies in International’s range. It was applied to the underwater hull. This advanced coating, says AkzoNobel, delivers “consistent and effective” performance for a clean, foul-free hull.

Built for UK shipping company Union Maritime, the Brands Hatch is a mid-sized crude oil carrier designed to navigate ports and waterways that can’t accommodate the largest tankers.

It was the third vessel built in China to be coated by AkzoNobel in recent years.