North Atlantic vessels to test new hull paint developed in Nova Scotia

A super-slick hull paint developed in Nova Scotia will undergo its toughest trial yet in 2022 when larger vessels test the product’s protective and anti-fouling properties in harsh, open ocean conditions in the North Atlantic.

Graphite Innovation and Technologies uses graphene — a carbon-based nanomaterial — as the basis for its strong, slippery and non-toxic hull paint. The coating helps prevent marine fouling — when aquatic organisms such as barnacles stick to the hull — thus improving the flow of water against the vessel, making it more efficient. 

Tests funded by Transport Canada on six Cape Islander lobster boats in Nova Scotia showed a 20