Bavaria Yacht Info

Member Forums => Modifications & Equipment => Topic started by: Joe on October 19 2017, 10:48

Title: Antifouling question - Hempel's Silic One
Post by: Joe on October 19 2017, 10:48

Hi All,

has anyone already made some experience with Hempel's Silic One silicone based antifouling paint ?
Perhaps in the Med.

Thanks
Joe

Title: Re: Antifouling question - Hempel's Silic One
Post by: Kibo on October 20 2017, 15:25

I haven't used it but I am retired from a major silicone polymer manufacturer who most likely make the polymers for this formulation.

I was in a technical discipline and know a little of the way these coatings are supposed to work.

Fundamentally it is not "antifouling" as such in that it does not contain a biocide or a deleterious metal base such as copper or tin. This type of coating relies on forming a kind of "non-stick" surface which marine life does not find it easy to attach to. It is not impossible for attachments to be made but the bonds are not as strong as a typical surface so growth can be more easily washed off by movement of water against the hull.

Therefore these types of coatings are best for vessels in constant or near constant movement rather than sitting at anchor or mooring for 80% of their lives so any growth which does attach can be quite quickly washed off under normal water flow against the hull. Obviously tides and currents will have some effect on a statically moored boat but the best efficacy is for vessels more used than not.

Hope it helps....

Title: Re: Antifouling question - Hempel's Silic One
Post by: Yngmar on October 20 2017, 17:35

This was my experiment with a free sample: http://www.ybw.com/forums/showthread.php?486177-Hempel-Silic-One-for-propellers-anyone-tried-it&p=6178756#post6178756

Title: Re: Antifouling question - Hempel's Silic One
Post by: Joe on November 13 2017, 07:52

Thanks for all comments and information.

Thus it seems I better stick to the traditional antifoulings.

Regards
Joe