AkzoNobel research highlights data sharing

The research focused on International’s own Intersleek 1100SR coating which uses biocide-free silicone technology.

Three LNG vessels were tracked over a 60-month period during which the application of the Intersleek 1100SR coating ‘significantly contributed to maintaining a smooth and clean hull condition’.

The whitepaper – ‘Optimizing Vessel Performance for Decarbonization Goals: Managing the Complexities of Hull Efficiency and Fouling Control with Data-Driven Decision Making’ – explores the importance of a consistent approach to data gathering, pointing out the need for good communication, multiple methods of verification and specialised expertise when making decisions.

International points to a report by the Global Maritime Forum which moots that inaccurate and opaque data causes a lack of trust between shipowners and those supplying the data, such as charterers.

“When it comes to analysing the performance of marine vessels, data is often variable, inconsistent or incomplete,” said Dr Barry Kidd, vessel performance manager at AkzoNobel.

“This makes it more difficult for ship operators to make informed decisions based on the best available information. As the shipping industry faces increasing regulatory pressures to reduce carbon emissions, a tailored approach and partnership mentality to coating selection and fleet management is essential.”

The whitepaper recommends the use of companion datasets, like hull inspections to more accurately diagnose performance issues and promotes its new methodology which it says aligns with ISO 19030 ‘Measurement of changes in hull and propeller performance’ and combines a range of performance metrics and operational data analysis.

In 2019 AkzoNobel sold its former paint factory in Slough, UK, for development. Much of the site has been earmarked for a data centre the size of 16 football pitches.