SANDEFJORD, Norway – Jotun has signed a memorandum of understanding with Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries for a new type of marine paint that reduces solvent emissions by up to 90%.

A memorandum of understanding has been signed with Korean Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI). This is the starting point of a closer cooperation and the use of a new, innovative solvent-free primer. The signing took place between Jotun's Chairman Odd Gleditch Jr. and HHI's Chief Executive Ka Sam-Hyun during the South Korean President's state visit to Norway in June. South Korea's Minister of Industry Yunmo Song attended the signing ceremony.

"The partnership with Jotun will allow HHI, the world's largest shipbuilder, to be better equipped to meet the new environmental requirements that are aimed at reducing solvent emissions, " said Ka Sam-Hyun.

"We are, of course, very pleased with the agreement with the world's largest shipyard, but even more satisfied that our innovation is contributing to a better environment," said Morten Fon, CEO of Jotun.

Jotun focuses heavily on research and development of environmentally friendly paints, and the corrosion-protective primer reduces total solvent release by 80-90%. The company has worked on developing the new type of marine paint for 13 years. It will reduce VOC emissions into the air from approximately 250 grams per liter to just nine grams per liter. Shipyards will save hundreds of millions of dollars by avoiding investments in plants related to the combustion of VOCs. VOC combustion also leads to CO₂ emissions, so this innovation provides a double benefit.

"We have conducted research in Korea and in Norway while developing this paint, and after 13 years can conclude that we have succeeded in developing a product that reduces solvent emissions by over 90%," said Erik Risberg, one of the scientists behind the new paint.

 “In addition, the product has better corrosion protection than previous systems, which helps extend the life of the vessels and reduces the need for maintenance. This is also very attractive for shipowners,” Risberg added.

Primers make up 60-70% of the total amount of paint applied to a ship. Risberg has worked in Korea for years, developing the primer in close collaboration with Korean shipyards. He is therefore very pleased with the agreement with HHI.

The new product is currently available for Korean shipyards and selected shipbuilders in Europe who have experience applying single-coat primers that require careful application techniques.

HHI has 16,000 employees and an order entry of $16 billion in 2018. HHI's CEO accompanied the Korean delegation during the state visit to President Moon Jae-In. Ka Sam-Hyun also visited the Jotun production facility in Sandefjord during his stay in Norway.