The world’s first Aframax oil tanker to feature wind-assisted propulsion was recently completed in China, with AkzoNobel contributing 350,000 liters of International® marine coatings to the vessel.

Named Brands Hatch, the ship was built by Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. for UK-based Union Maritime. It includes three intelligent fiberglass sails projected to reduce annual fuel consumption by 12 percent and cut carbon emissions by 5,000 tons under typical operating conditions.

AkzoNobel’s coatings protect the vessel’s underwater hull, deck and cargo oil tanks. Among the products used was Intercept® 8500 LPP, a fouling control coating that combines linear polishing with a biocide package for long-term performance and fuel savings.

“We’re very proud to have contributed to this landmark project,” said Rob Leslie, commercial director of marine and protective coatings for AkzoNobel Greater China.

This is the third milestone vessel coated by AkzoNobel in China in recent years, following the Dream ultra deep-sea drilling vessel and the Adora Magic City cruise ship.