I-Tech’s Selektope Approved in China

I-Tech informed that Selektope, a marine biocide used to improve ship hull performance and reduce maintenance, has been approved for use in China.

Selektope has been approved for use as an antifouling biocide by the Ministry of Environmental Protection of the People’s Republic of China.

“We are pleased to receive approval from the Chinese authorities of our antifouling technology following a rigorous environmental risk assessment,” said Philip Chaabane, Managing Director of I-Tech. “This marks a major milestone in our efforts to deliver our unique technology across the global marine industry, demonstrating the acceptance of Selektope for sea going vessels as well as other marine structures in the world’s largest single maritime market.”

Selektope has already been approved in Japan and South Korea and is under registration in the EU.

The turnover for antifouling paints is estimated at $2 billion annually, and the ability to protect hulls against barnacles is a critical attribute in all antifouling coatings. Selektope is a biodegradable, nonmetal substance developed to avoid fouling by barnacles and other shell-forming animals on boats and ships. It has proven effectiveness in concentrations of about 0.1 % w/w (percentage weight/weight). The antifouling effect is exerted through stimulation of the barnacle larvae’s swimming behavior, which makes the larvae unable to attach to a surface painted with Selektope. As soon as the barnacle leaves the surface the effect disappears, i.e. it is reversible. Due to the low concentration needed, Selektope does not compromise the paint’s chemical structure, color or other cooperative biocides involved.

i-tech.se