The antifouling hull coating FASTAR from Nippon Paint Marine reduces fuel consumption and benefits to marine life and the environment.
Nippon Paint Marine, a Japanese supplier of coatings for the marine industry, has announced its FASTAR antifouling solution won the Environmental Technology Award at the 56th Annual JCIA Awards Ceremony, which recognised its contribution to reducing fuel consumption and its benefits to marine life and the environment.
The Environmental Technology Award recognises innovative technologies and products that have greatly contributed to the development of the chemical industry. The award is sponsored by the Japan Chemical Industry Association, which represents 258 businesses and organisations involved in the chemical industry in Japan.
Many antifouling coatings prevent marine life from adhering to the ship's hull by releasing antifouling agents into the ocean. FASTAR's hydrophilic and hydrophobic nano-domain structure allows the antifouling agent to elute more efficiently than conventional products, reducing elution by up to 50%. In addition, the paint features a patented hydrogel water entrapment technology, which significantly reduces friction between the hull and water, proving layer to reduce fuel costs and emissions by up to 8%.
“It is with great pride that we accept the JCIA’s award for innovation in environmental technology. To be recognised as the recipient of this prestigious award is a fantastic achievement and is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our R&D team. The fact that FASTAR is the first marine coating to receive this honour, marks a significant milestone in our journey and highlights the important role of technology to reduce maritime emissions. Nippon Paint Marine’s R&D team will continue to drive forward our commitment to innovation and excellence, in harmony with the protection of the natural environment,” has stated Hirokazu Kaji, Deputy General Manager, Technology Division at Nippon Paint Marine.