NanoFASE partner HEMPEL A/S is one of the leading coating companies for the marine and yacht market. HEMPEL has delivered antifouling solutions to customers all over the world for more than 100 years; several thousand vessels are painted every year with their products. HEMPEL's research lab has been exploring the benefits of using nanomaterials in coating products. The NanoFASE case study presented involves a comparison between nano and non-nano copper-based active compounds (Cu₂O) regarding functional performance and potential release pathways. The copper-based nanomaterial was provided by NanoFASE partner Promethean Particles as a liquid thus eliminating occupational risk of inhalation during the paint mixing process.) 

1. Synthesis: The liquid waste from synthesis contains a tiny amount (≤ 0.1 wt%) of Cu-based nanoparticles, delivered as hazardous waste to controlled treatment.
2. Coating process: HEMPEL antifouling paint is applied to vessel surface of approx. 300.000 m²/year. NanoFASE is currently assessing in lab-based experiments the release potential for such surface.
3. Use phase: The antifouling paint can contain up to 45 wt% of Cu. Friction of water against the sides of the sailing vessel reduces the paint thickness by approximately 4 μm per month. Thus some quantityof Cu-based nanoparticles (under assessment) would be continuously released to the sea.
4. Recycling: No recycling route exists.
5. End-of-life: Old paint is commonly removed by sanding the surface before painting again. During this process ENM could be released to air due to mechanical stress.

Read more

Visit the NanoFASE Library to read summaries of these reports: NanoFASE Report D1.2 Report on the pathway analysis NanoFASE Report D4.2 Release estimations during ENMs and nano-enabled products value chain

 

Contact

  Socorro Vázquez-Campos

  LEITAT

  Email: svazquez@leitat.org

 

Marta Santiago
HEMPEL

Selina Tang
Promethean Particles