LM40-85 Marine Tin-Free Antifouling Coating

LM40-85 Marine Tin-Free Antifouling Coating

Product Introduction:

LM40-85 is a tin‑free epichlorohydrin‑based antifouling coating designed to provide effective fouling protection for ship hulls. Its self‑polishing mechanism ensures a smooth surface over time, reducing friction and fuel consumption. The tin‑free formulation complies with modern environmental regulations, making it suitable for use worldwide. With a VOC content of less than 350 g/L, it balances antifouling performance with environmental responsibility. The coating is suitable for application on both newbuildings and existing vessels during maintenance or repair.

LM40-85 has a volume solids content of 60% ± 2% and dries to a matt finish. It is a single‑pack product, eliminating the need for mixing and reducing application complexity. The coating provides long‑term antifouling performance by continuously releasing biocides at a controlled rate, preventing the settlement of marine organisms such as barnacles, algae, and slime.

Intended Uses:

This coating is intended for use on ship hulls and other submerged structures requiring antifouling protection. It is suitable for newbuilding projects, as well as for maintenance, repair, and on‑board touch‑up operations.

Mixing And Application:

This product is supplied as a single‑pack coating – no mixing is required, and induction period is not applicable. For large‑scale work, airless spray is recommended, using a tip size of 0.38–0.53 mm and an output pressure of at least 17 MPa. Air spraying is also suitable, with a tip size of 2.0–3.0 mm and a minimum pressure of 0.4 MPa. Brush or roller application is acceptable only for small touch‑up areas. Thinner (BX‑801) is generally not recommended; if absolutely necessary, it should not exceed 5% of the total volume. Equipment cleaning should be done with BX‑801.

Film Thickness & Theoretical Coverage:

Drying & Overcoating Data：

Surface Preparation:

LM40-85 should be applied over a recommended primer coating scheme. The primer surface must be clean, dry, and free from contamination, and the coating must be applied within the specified overcoating interval (consult the relevant primer data sheet). For newbuilding, damaged areas should be prepared to the specified standard (e.g., St3) and primed before applying LM40-85. For repair work, LM40-85 may be applied directly over aged LM40-85 coatings, provided the existing coating is intact and firmly adhering. Loose or flaking coatings should be removed back to a firm edge, and the area should be thoroughly fresh‑water washed, degreased, and repaired with an appropriate primer before the full coat is applied.

Application Limitations:

Coating lifetime is directly proportional to the thickness applied; achieving the specified film thickness is essential for optimal performance. After the final coat has dried, the vessel should be launched within 15 days; exceeding this period may impair antifouling effectiveness. Upon immersion, the coating colour may change to grey or grey‑green, which is normal and does not affect performance. Application should only proceed when relative humidity is below 85% and the substrate temperature is at least 3°C above the dew point. Avoid prolonged inhalation of solvent vapours and paint mist, and prevent skin/eye contact. Adequate ventilation and fire precautions must be maintained during use.

Storage And Packaging:

Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and open flames. Containers must remain tightly closed. Shelf life is a minimum of 12 months at 25°C (subject to re‑inspection). Packaging: 31.8 kg / 18 L in a 20 L container. Flash point: >28°C.