AkzoNobel enters new waters
China has launched its first domestically designed and built ultra deep-sea drilling vessel, which is being protected by more than 300,000 litres of International marine coatings supplied by AkzoNobel. Christened Meng Xiang (Dream), it has a unique ability to drill as far as 11,000m beneath the ocean into the Earth’s crust and upper mantle. Almost 180m long, the ship will undertake multiple missions, including deep-sea resource exploration, ocean scientific drilling and long-range marine research.
International products have been applied to the entire vessel, including the hull, deck, engine room and ballast tanks, providing a protective shield against the ever-changing ocean conditions. “We were honoured to support this landmark project,” says Simon Parker, Director of the company’s Marine and Protective Coatings business. “We developed a customised solution, applying all our experience and expertise to ensure the vessel is equipped to endure the harsh and unpredictable conditions, while significantly extending its service life.”
Captain Hu Lin from the Guangzhou Marine Geological Survey Bureau adds: “This is a significant breakthrough in China’s key technology and equipment for deep-sea exploration. In addition to supplying top quality coating products with exceptional performance, AkzoNobel has also provided comprehensive technical support and on-site services, laying a solid foundation for the vessel’s exploration and research missions.”
Capable of withstanding a super typhoon and working continuously for 120 days at sea, the Dream features a comprehensive range of International coatings, including Intershield 300, Intersmooth 7465Si and Interthane 990. They’ll provide exceptional weather resistance, along with world class anti-corrosion and antifouling performance.
AkzoNobel also supplied International products for China’s first domestically built large cruiseship, the Adora Magic City, and the country’s first domestically built icebreaker, Xuelong 2.
The Meng Xiang is coated with over 300,000 litres of International paint supplied by AkzoNobel