LF-Sea from Nippon Paint - antifouling paint that saves fuel

摘要

Underwater hull coatings have a key role in a vessel's fuel consumption. Reductions in the friction between the ship and the sea have the potential to bring great benefits for owners and their bottom lines.Marketed since 2008, LF-Sea paint (LF stands for Low Friction) was developed after Nippon Paint Marine Coatings sought to combine techniques to reduce friction with an effective and reliable antifouling material. It has now been used on more than 480 ships.The primary consideration for a paint-maker when tackling friction is to provide a coating that first and foremost offers extremely efficient antifouling. Drawing inspiration from dolphin skin, tuna and other marine animals, Nippon Paint developed a coating that provides a foul-free surface, self-smoothing over time and improved hydrodynamic performance.