Hi Jay,
?
Hempel has been around for many decades.? They are a major supplier to the commercial shipping and offshore sector and have a full range of paints.
?
I am wondering if the sales rep mentioned "silicone" - there are a number of new products on the market that use this as a "fouling release" coating.
I believe that Delos tried a similar product on their boat but not sure of the long term outcome.
?
I worked on a number of coating research projects that included using fluoropolymers, PTFE additives, silicones and siloxanes.? I could never really find something that was a perfect solution although the fluoropolymers showed promise.? This is 25 years ago now.
?
Selectope (developed in Sweden) is likely the most promising technology available right now as far as I know.? Pettit has the rights to the product as an additive to their bottom paints and I believe they are waiting on EPA approval for use in US waters.? The EU has approved it so I expect it should be available soon.
?
I would avoid silicone based paints on your boat (in my opinion) as they may be challenging to remove in the long run and make it difficult to switch to another coating.
?
Tim R
38MKII in refit
Tim Rivard