Posters
Come meet the poster presenters to ask them questions and discuss their work
We would like to invite you to come and see the posters at our upcoming conference. The posters will showcase a diverse range of research topics, and will give delegates an opportunity to engage with the authors and learn more about their work. Whether you are a seasoned researcher or simply curious about the latest developments in your field, we believe that the posters will offer something of interest to everyone. So please join us at the conference and take advantage of this opportunity to learn and engage with your peers in industry and the academic community.
PO053: Two-Coat Inorganic Coating Systems Reimagine Long-Life Corrosion Protection for Offshore Atmospheric Exposure
Linda Carlsen, Director of Technical Service, Carboline
Abstract
Extending the service life of offshore wind towers delivers significant value by reducing maintenance costs, operational downtime, and environmental impact. Traditional protective coating systems rely on zinc-rich primers combined with organic mid- and topcoats. However, regulatory restrictions on isocyanates and concerns about microplastic release from degrading organic coatings call for alternative approaches. This study explores a two-coat inorganic system consisting of an inorganic zinc (IOZ) primer and an inorganic ethyl silicate-based finish coat. Unlike conventional organic topcoats, this system maintains permeability, enabling zinc reaction at the air–coating interface, reinforcing barrier protection. The result is exceptional corrosion resistance, reduced embodied carbon, and the elimination of microplastic release in offshore environments. Laboratory and field testing (ISO 12944-6 and ISO 12944-9) demonstrate that two-coat inorganic systems perform at least as well as galvanizing or thermal spray metallizing, with service life projections exceeding 25 years. Test panels subjected to four successive ISO 12944-9 CX cyclic ageing cycles (16,800 hours) achieved passing results — an unprecedented benchmark for offshore coatings. With proven durability, compliance to standards, lower carbon footprint, and operational advantages (fewer coats, faster throughput, colour flexibility), two-coat inorganic systems represent a transformative solution for offshore wind assets.
No recording available for this poster.
