PPG announced the completion of its 100th dry docking using electrostatic application for marine hull coatings. The milestone was achieved during work on the MV Colossus, a 287-meter bulk carrier owned by Enterprises Shipping and Trading S.A., at CUD Weihai Shipyard Co. Ltd. in China. The project used PPG Nexeon 810 antifouling on the boot top and PPG Sigmaglide 2390 fouling release coating on the underwater hull.

PPG was the first coatings company to introduce electrostatic application to the marine sector, drawing on experience in the automotive and aerospace industries. The method uses an electrostatic spray gun to apply coating to a grounded metal hull, guiding electrically charged paint particles toward the surface. This results in even distribution, improved transfer efficiency, and reduced overspray and waste.

Formulations of PPG Sigmaglide and PPG Nexeon 810 are designed specifically for electrostatic application. These low-friction coatings help reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

“We're continuing to expand electrostatic application across our global network to help shipowners and shipyards comply with increased regulations and sustainability goals,” said Sijmen Visser, PPG sales director, Marine EMEA, Protective and Marine Coatings.

The company cited results from EDR Antwerp shipyard, which reported a 40 percent reduction in overspray using PPG Sigmaglide on a RoRo passenger vessel from Stena Line.