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25 Stolt tankers to get graphene-based propellor coating

Stolt Tankers Propellor with coating applied
Stolt Invention is the latest Stolt Tankers ship to have its propeller treated with the GIT coating.
Under a two-year deal, 25 ships owned by Stolt Tankers will have a graphene-based coating applied to their propellors to improve efficiency and reduce bio growth.

The two-year deal between Stolt Tankers and Graphite Innovations & Technology (GIT) covers the application of GIT’s XGIT-PROP coating to 25 ships during 2023.

The installations follow a trial of the coating in 2022 on Stolt Acer, during which the vessel saw a reduction in fuel consumption. The coating was applied to a further five vessels following the trial.

The coating reduces biofouling and noise emissions, improving efficiency while reducing the impact of noise on sea life. The coating uses no harmful toxins or biocides, further reducing its impact on marine ecosystems.

Beyond the economic benefits of lowering fuel consumption, the coating also reduces the need for propellor cleaning/polishing and reduces the damage caused by cavitation.

Jose Gonzalez Celis, Energy and Conservation Manager at Stolt Tankers, said: “This collaboration represents our continued focus on decarbonisation. We have several sustainability ambitions and see GIT’s propeller coatings as a simple way to maximise fuel savings and minimise emissions. The shipping industry needs innovators like GIT to help drive change and make a significant positive impact on our oceans. Our agreement with GIT will mean we can protect our oceans without compromising operational efficiency. This is an exciting move forward for our company.”

Mo AlGermozi, Co-founder and CEO at GIT, said: “I can’t say enough about the Stolt Tankers team and their desire to achieve their ambitious sustainability goals. Our XGIT-PROP puts this desire into action. They were able to measure significant improvement in fuel efficiency while ensuring they help maintain healthy and vibrant oceans. GIT is honoured to partner with Stolt Tankers in supporting their green shipping activities in our oceans.”