Asyad Group turns to sustainable coatings technology

A nano-epoxy silicone coating has been applied to Asyad Shipping’s 2014-built bulk carrier, Jabal Al Kawr, at the Group’s Duqm shipyard, Asyad Drydock, in Oman. The hull coating upgrade on board the 63,591dwt vessel is the second application at the shipyard. It follows the first-ever application in the Middle East North Africa region on board the 88,174dwt Minoa Marine-owned bulk carrier, Julia, earlier this year.

Hull coatings will play an increasingly important role in helping cut operational carbon emissions from ships in the future. This abrasion-resistant coating, for example, has a range of environmental advantages and therefore fits well with Asyad Shipping’s environmental targets. In a statement, the company did not identify the coating supplier.

High-grade hull products like this reduce drag, increase fuel efficiency, cut carbon emissions, and lower likely maintenance work at subsequent dockings. This product does not contain biocides and therefore minimises impact on the marine environment.

Asyad Drydock’s Acting COO, Dr. Abdulsalam Al Rabaani, commented: "Being the first drydock to apply nano-epoxy silicone coating in the MENA region is testament to our advanced ship-servicing capacities and ability to integrate the latest innovations in the industry, as we forge ahead in our pursuit of partnerships with top green solution providers … Our collaboration with Asyad Shipping also shows both of our companies’ synergy and commitment to sustainability, in line with Asyad Group’s strategy of enabling the transition to a sustainable maritime future."

Asyad Drydock, previously Oman Drydock, is strategically located in the Port of Duqm on the Gulf of Oman, close to major shipping routes, and benefiting customers by reducing deviation time.