- Lloyd’s Regiseter (LR) has awarded the world’s first Recognised Enhanced Antifouling Type Approval to Jotun’s SeaQuantum Skate antifouling coating.
- The approval, announced at Nor-Shipping 2025, covers both the HullSkater robotic cleaning device and the SeaQuantum Skate coating.
- This cerification makes it the first fully integrated hull cleaning and coating solution to be certified by a classification society.
At Nor-Shipping 2025, Lloyd’s Register (LR) announced the issuance of the world’s first Recognised Enhanced Antifouling Type Approval to Jotun’s SeaQuantum Skate antifouling coating, alongside type approval certification for the HullSkater hull cleaning equipment.
This certification marks the first instance of a classification society approving a fully integrated hull cleaning and coating solution.
LR grants industry first full antifouling approval
The Recognised Enhanced Type Approval, the highest level under LR’s Antifouling Coatings programme, is based on extensive in-service performance data from at least three vessels, including inspection reports before and after cleaning, time-to-refoul measurements, coating condition assessments, and third-party water quality testing during the cleaning process. Recognised approvals are valid for five years and can be renewed with continued performance evidence.
The HullSkater, a remotely operated robotic cleaner, is designed to remove early-stage biofouling without damaging antifouling coatings. It is always paired with the SeaQuantum Skate coating, forming a fully compatible cleaning and coating regime.
Type approval of the HullSkater cleaning equipment is based on cleaning performance, electrical and mechanical equipment suitability, and data from water sample analysis in the vicinity of operation compared to background samples.
The LR approval provides verified operational guidance to ship operators, specifying appropriate cleaning heads, optimal pressures, recommended cleaning cycles, and maximum allowable fouling levels before intervention becomes necessary. The certification also identifies unsuitable cleaning methods to protect coating integrity and performance.
Heather Hughes, Principal Specialist at Lloyd’s Register, stated: “Ship operators are approaching LR seeking authoritative guidance on which coatings can be effectively used as part of their comprehensive hull management planning. We provide independent verification of antifouling coating performance both before and after cleaning, ensuring operators can make informed decisions with confidence.”
Morten Fon, CEO of Jotun, commented: “This approval validates the long-term performance of the HullSkater and SeaQuantum Skate. We’re proud to set the standard for integrated solutions that protect both vessels and the oceans they operate in.”
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Lloyd’s Register
