Elcora begins development of non-toxic graphene coatings

Elcora has been developing a series of graphene-enhanced marine coatings. Elcora’s EL-2D few layer graphene powder supports the development of new and advanced graphene protective coatings due to their excellent hydrophobicity, chemical resistance, anti-bacterial properties, lubricity, strength and thermal characteristics.

The highly hydrophobic nature of graphene has the potential to limit the growth of marine organisms, reduce fuel consumption of vessels through the reduction of drag forces, increase the lifespan of coatings and provide de-icing properties.

Anti-fouling and anti-corrosive coatings are used in the marine environment to prevent the growth of barnacles, mussels, and other organisms that contribute to increased fuel consumption of the vessel, impede mechanical functions and plug the pipes.

Common anti-fouling coatings use copper or other marine toxins.

The first phase of Elcora’s tests investigates anti-fouling coatings on steel, with the purpose of minimising the use of these toxins.

A matrix of coating methods is being investigated that includes a direct coating of graphene, epoxy composites and an additive suitable to existing antifouling compounds.

A comparison of biological organism growth will be made of the various graphene coatings according to standard ASTM testing methods.

These tests are anticipated to take approximately two months, at which point the best-performing methods will be optimised.

Troy Grant, Elcora’s President & CEO, said: "We are pleased with our initial coating test which demonstrates improved resistance to fouling and corrosion, even with a minor amount of dispersed graphene.

"Non-toxic graphene based coatings could be truly disruptive to the Marine Coatings Market, which is said to surpass US$15bn by 2024 according to Global Market Insights.”

Additional tests will be conducted based on the results of the anti-fouling investigation.

These include optimisation of de-icing properties, minimisation in the differences of thermal expansion, strength, and other characteristics that would give these products a competitive advantage.

The National Research Council of Canada, Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) has contributed $392,590 towards the successful completion of the project.