When it comes to protecting high-value assets in extreme environments, effective surface protection becomes critical. Whether it's the open seas, where saltwater corrosion is an ever-present threat, or high-stakes shipbuilding yards where rust can compromise the structural integrity of cutting-edge vessels, solutions that shield from the harshest conditions are essential.
Protectapeel, an innovative peelable protective coating, has been at the forefront of protecting major marine engineering projects such as The Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers and The RRS Sir David Attenborough polar research vessel.
The Challenge of Extreme Environments
The marine environment is one of the most unforgiving settings for ships and other structures. Saltwater accelerates corrosion, leading to rust that can weaken even the most robust materials. Wind, rain, and the constant battering of the elements can quickly wear down exposed surfaces, making repairs and replacements key concerns in naval projects.
Protecting the Queen Elizabeth-Class Aircraft Carriers
The Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers represent the pinnacle of naval engineering, serving as the largest and most powerful warships ever constructed for the Royal Navy. During the construction of the carriers, the steel surfaces were vulnerable to environmental degradation, especially from exposure to saltwater and moisture.
To protect these surfaces from corrosion during manufacture, Protectapeel was applied. Our liquid-applied, peelable coating formed a tough, protective barrier that prevented oxidation, rust, and environmental damage.
At the end of the protection phase, Protectapeel was easily peeled away revealing undamaged sections. This saved the engineers time and money as they were able to assemble the sections of the carriers immediately, without having to spend time cleaning down or replacing parts and components.
Protecting The RRS Sir David Attenborough Research Vessel
The RRS Sir David Attenborough is a state-of-the-art polar research vessel, designed for scientific missions in the most extreme climates on Earth. As it navigates through polar ice and the harsh, freezing waters of the Arctic and Antarctic, the ship is exposed to unique challenges.
During the vessel’s construction, Protectapeel was used to protect key areas of the ship’s exterior from corrosion and damage. In addition to protecting the vessel from saltwater, the use of Protectapeel during its construction meant that sensitive areas could be sealed off from contamination and physical damage. This allowed for a smoother construction process, reducing the likelihood of delays caused by surface degradation or contamination.
Why Protectapeel is a Game-Changer
Corrosion Protection: Protectapeel creates an impenetrable barrier that stops rust and corrosion, even in the most corrosive environments like saltwater.
Ease of Application and Removal: Unlike traditional metal protection, which can be difficult and expensive to apply and remove, Protectapeel is user-friendly. It is easily sprayed directly onto the surface and, when no longer needed simply peeled away revealing clean, rust free surfaces.
Cost Efficiency: By preventing corrosion and damage during construction, Protectapeel minimises the need for expensive repairs and replacements, saving time and money in large-scale projects.
The Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers and the RRS Sir David Attenborough represent two of the most advanced naval and research vessels of our time. The role of Protectapeel in protecting these ships highlights the coating’s value in extreme environments, providing not only surface protection but also peace of mind.
By creating a robust yet removable barrier, Protectapeel ensures that these vessels can withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater and other environmental hazards, safeguarding critical assets that operate in some of the world's most challenging conditions.
For more information on Protectapeel Protective Coatings: The Ultimate Protection for Extreme Environments talk to Protectapeel