Gilsonite in Marine and Ship Coatings

Bituminous coatings have long been used on ship hulls, ballast tanks and marine structures.

Benefits

• Water and salt resistance
• Economical thick films
• Good adhesion to steel

Uses

• Ballast tank coatings (traditional systems)
• Hull bottom coatings in some markets
• Pilings and jetties

Modern specifications often require epoxy systems; gilsonite-modified coatings serve where they are permitted.

Traditional bituminous marine uses

• Coal tar and bitumen coatings in ballast tanks
• Black boot-topping and hull bottoms in some markets
• Pilings, jetties and fenders

Modern practice

Many classification and environmental rules now favour epoxy systems. Bituminous coatings remain useful for pilings, buoys, maintenance coatings and some non-critical areas.

Gilsonite benefit

Improves hardness and adhesion and reduces softening in tropical heat.

Selection

Always check owner, class society and environmental requirements before specifying.

See paint grade gilsonite.