I-Tech AB, a Sweden-based producer of bio-chemical additive Selektope, has developed a new dissolvable biocide packaging system.
Image: The I-Tech’s dissolvable biocide packaging system. Photo: courtesy of Selektope/I-Tech AB.
Based in Mölndal, I-Tech is a public held bio-technology company which owns all IP and regulatory rights to Selektope.
The new ‘drop-in, dust-free’ expanded polystyrene (EPS) container is designed to enhance the way the antifouling coatings additive, Selektope is added to marine coatings during the manufacturing process.
Selektope is the organic, non-metal compound which is capable of preventing barnacle fouling performance for ships.
The Selektope’s efficiency has enabled traditional marine coatings suppliers to develop products with superior hard fouling protection, lower water resistance, decreased fuel consumption, and reduced maintenance costs.
I-Tech’s EPS container can be added to paint without being opened making antifouling agent entirely dust free, and fully dissolves almost instantaneously without leaving any traces in the coating system
I-TECH CEO Philip Chaabane said: “This latest innovation from I-Tech supports our customers in the safe use of Selektope and is a game-changer for the addition of biocides during the paint manufacturing process.
“In recent years, I-Tech has been successful in scaling up the production of its unique technology from quantities measured in kilos to a robust manufacturing platform producing at multiple tons scale. This latest invention supports the increasing uptake of this breakthrough technology in the market.”
The new packaging allows for the dust free charging of 100% Selektope powder material to a liquid paint batch, thus completely eliminating dust formation.
In addition to allowing the paint manufacturer to make optimal use of available Selektope, the container improves safety in the paint processing plant.
The EPS container comprises a CurTec HDPE screw lid jar featuring locking mechanism to make the packaging durable with improved impact resistance during transport.
Additionally, the packaging is capable of holding 300-800g of medetomidine, the chemical name for Selektope, as a dry powder.
The EPS container has undergone extensive testing and has been qualified for use during the manufacturing process without compromising paint performance.
Earlier this year, I-Tech announced its plan to optimize and adapt its processes for production of Selektope at large-scale at an existing plant.