Marine Antifouling Coatings Market to Double in Value by 2008

The application of tributyltin-based coatings, which are used on three-quarters of the world's commercial vessels, is being banned by the United Nations. This press release describes a research report on the global impact of the ban.

Marine Antifouling Coatings Market to Double in Value by 2008

CONTACT:    Chuck Brennan
      973-571-9000
   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Verona, NJ, June 19, 2002. Global demand for marine antifouling coatings will more than double in value by 2008, according to a recent, syndicated report on the industry. Commercial ships and non-U.S. naval vessels will provide the main growth drivers as they convert to tin-free coatings. TBT-based antifouling coatings are not used by the US Navy or Coast Guard. The application of tributyltin (TBT) coatings is being banned by an international accord led by the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO). Antifouling coatings used on the recreational boat and yacht segment will be less affected since, due to environmental concerns, the use of TBT-based coatings on non aluminum hull vessels under 25 meters in length has been prohibited in most countries for more than a decade.

According to the report, Marine Antifouling Systems: Opportunities in a Changing Market, about one-quarter of the world's commercial fleet, including cruise ships, ferries, container ships, tankers, and other commercial vessels, has already converted to tin-free systems. However, as the remainder switch to higher-priced alternatives-which are two to three times more expensive-the value of the business will more than double, and will exceed $1.3 billion in 2008. Since the presence of TBT as an antifouling system is not expected to be banned until January 1, 2008, strong demand for TBT- based coatings is expected through the remainder of 2002 and in 2003. Ship owners and operators will advance their planned hull paintings in anticipation of the January 1, 2003 application ban.

Meanwhile, intense worldwide research is underway by suppliers of antifouling coatings and their raw material or technology partners to develop the next generation of effective, environmentally-friendly products. Biocide-free systems that function on a "non-stick" principal have achieved a degree of commercial success, but their application is limited to a relatively small percentage of the world's fleet. Problems related to adhesion of the coatings, durability and short service life are among the technological hurdles that must be overcome in the development of nontoxic systems.

Marine Antifouling Systems: Opportunities in a Changing Market is a global analysis that is available only by subscription from Brennan Research Group. Chapters of the research report project the overall market in 2003 and 2008, regulations and technologies. The leading suppliers of antifouling systems and raw materials are also profiled.

Founded in 1991, Brennan Research Group is a specialty chemicals and advanced materials consulting firm headquartered in Verona, NJ. For additional information, the firm can be contacted by mail: P.O. Box 43, Verona, NJ 07044, phone: 973-571-9000, fax: 973-239-3177, or email: (brennanresgrp@juno.com).

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