Hempel says it has introduced a new high-build epoxy coating reinforced with lamellar glass flakes, to meet the protection requirements of some of the most extreme corrosive environments.

The use of lamellar glass flakes in Hempadur multi-strength GF35870 provides superior barrier properties and thus improves the corrosion properties of the coating, says the company.

Glass flakes are impermeable and increase the distance that water has to take when passing through the paint film to make contact with the substrate, and start corrosion.

Glass flakes are also chemically inert, which provides additional protection in case of any chemical attacks on the coating.

The glass flakes also improve the abrasion resistance properties of the coating.

Hempadur Multi-strength GF 35870 combines all the features of a high-build epoxy coating with the properties of glass flakes, and thus makes the product extremely resistant to wear and tear, chemicals and corrosion.

The product is based on a pure unmodified epoxy resin composition with which Hempel has experience in the oil and gas industry.

It also meets the most stringent solvent emission regulations in the world. With a VOC level (Volatile Organic Compound) as low as 177 g/litre and a volume solids content as high as 87 per cent, the product emits far fewer solvents into the air than most other epoxy products.

Hempadur Multi-strength GF 35870 is designed to withstand the severe conditions prevailing in the offshore industry, on areas such as splash zones, helidecks and working decks. Such areas are exposed to severe abrasion in a highly corrosive environment.

But the product is not limited to application on offshore constructions only. Water treatment facilities, sheet piling, pulp and paper mills and water dams are just a few examples of land-based constructions also requiring proper protection against abrasion and corrosion.

With a volume solids as high as 87 per cent, Hempadur Multi-strength GF 35870 can be applied in dry film thicknesses as high as 350 to 500 micron, even on vertical surfaces. Furthermore, the product is self-priming and can therefore provide structures with extremely good corrosion protection in just a one-coat system.

Another product feature of Hempadur Multi-strength GF 35870 is its fast-drying properties. Curing proceeds very quickly, even when applied in high film thickness.

Due to the fast curing of the product, structures can be exposed to water only a few hours after the product is applied, making the product an ideal solution for the repair of structures in tidal zones, where time for application and drying of the product is an important issue, Hempel says.

Hempadur Multi-strength GF 35870 is available from most Hempel companies around the world.