Ecopaint

TECHNOLOGY

• New generation of biocide-free marine antifouling coatings based on the incorporation of naturally derived active molecules into a self-polishing polymer matrix

• Technology designed to prevent the formation of primary bacterial biofilms, responsible for the initial stages of biological fouling on submerged surfaces

• Environmentally friendly alternative to conventional biocide-based antifouling coatings, designed to minimize the release of harmful substances into marine ecosystems

• Acrylic resin-based formulation compatible with existing industrial manufacturing processes, facilitating integration into marine coating production lines

MARKET

• Maritime industry: commercial, military, research and recreational vessels

• Offshore infrastructure: offshore wind turbines, oil platforms, port facilities and submerged structures

• Underwater equipment: sensors, oceanographic buoys, underwater robots and drones

• Industrial seawater systems: heat exchangers, cooling circuits, filters and pipelines

DEVELOPMENT STATUS

• TRL 3-4 – Initial experimental proof of concept demonstrated under laboratory conditions

• Successful incorporation of the developed polymers into generic marine paint formulations

• Initial proof of concept achieved through circulating seawater aquarium tests on coated surfaces

• Further testing under semi-realistic conditions is ongoing, using optimized formulations and benchmarking against commercial antifouling coatings

IP

• Patent filed

VALORISATION STRATEGY

• Seeking industrial partners specializing in marine coatings, technical surface treatments and protection solutions for submerged structures

• Industrial co-development opportunities focused on formulation optimization, real-world performance validation and industrial scale-up