I-Tech AB (publ), the biotechnology innovator behind the marine antifouling technology Selektope®, and Guangdong Havey Advanced Materials Technology Co., Ltd., specialists in advanced polymer science, have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop and commercialize next-generation high-performance antifouling materials for marine coatings.
The strategic partnership builds on successful collaborative R&D initiatives between the two companies since 2024. Early validation of coating systems combining Selektope® with biodegradable resin binders has already demonstrated promising interim results, highlighting the potential for enhanced antifouling performance while reducing environmental impact.
Both companies are also exploring the creation of a dedicated joint venture to expand the availability of environmentally responsible marine coating ingredients, including biodegradable binders. This venture would leverage I-Tech’s innovation in marine antifouling solutions and Havey’s expertise in advanced functional polymers to accelerate sustainable product development.
Binders, a key component in marine coatings, significantly influence both the physical and chemical properties of paint systems. Increasing the proportion of biodegradable binders is critical to advancing sustainable marine coatings, offering benefits such as improved antifouling efficiency and lower Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions.
“At I-Tech, sustainability and technological breakthroughs go hand in hand,” stated Markus Jönsson, CEO of I-Tech. “Our collaboration with Havey opens new opportunities to commercialize more sustainable, next-generation antifouling solutions for the maritime industry.”
Zhishen (Jason) Dong, General Manager of Havey, added: “By combining our expertise, we aim to provide advanced, environmentally friendly paint ingredient technologies that deliver effective antifouling protection while reducing the ecological footprint. This collaboration positions us at the forefront of green marine technology.”
About I-Tech AB
I-Tech AB is a biotechnology company behind Selektope®, an active substance designed to prevent barnacle attachment on submerged surfaces such as ship hulls. By enhancing antifouling performance, Selektope® helps reduce fuel and maintenance costs while improving vessel energy efficiency. The technology is approved by regulators and adopted by several leading marine antifouling coating manufacturers worldwide. I-Tech is listed on Nasdaq First North Growth Market in Stockholm, with DNB Carnegie Investment Bank AB serving as its Certified Adviser.
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Source: I-Tech AB
