A company pioneering solar technology for the maritime industry is collaborating with the maker of Sellotape to create a glue capable of bonding state-of-the-art PV tiles to the surface of ships.
Grafmarine, based in Anglesey and Manchester in the UK, is working with Henkel, the German multinational consumer and industrial goods manufacturer; the company behind household brands such as Loctite, Unibond, and – of course – Sellotape.
The two businesses are collaborating on a hard-wearing, anti-corrosive adhesive that will bond Grafmarine’s state-of-the-art NanoDeck tiles to any flat surface, namely ships and vessels.
Nigel Marc Roberts, commercial director at Grafmarine, said: “To be working alongside Henkel and developing different ideas is a privilege, as they are a world leader in bonding technology.
“For us the focus is on ease of application, an adhesive that can effectively ‘glue’ the tile to the vessel, and that’s something they are trialling.
“The process is incredible and a game-changer for us, as it makes the whole system less labour intensive, reduces thermal stress, and the tile can be attached to any type of material or surface.”
The company’s AI solar management system is said to capture, store, and remotely manage clean energy while at sea. Furthermore, demand is accelerating quickly as leaders in global shipping markets are working towards net zero, driven by customer need and legislative changes.
Engineering director, Chris Russell said: “Henkel have been an amazing collaborative supply partner and together we have been working tirelessly on this new, sustainable and safe solution for our NanoDeck tiles.
“The Henkel product will enable us to mass install them onto any vessel quickly, seamlessly and with little cost – we are delighted to have them as our key long-term strategic partner.”
Grafmarine has designed rugged square panels to be produced alongside its more aesthetic hexagonal model, with a focus on different sectors.
Founder, Martin Leigh said: “The square is ideal for the hard-wearing, extreme conditions of the shipping industry while the hexagonal alternative is more aesthetically pleasing and attracting a lot of interest in the luxury super-yacht market.
“Both are game changers and will have a major impact on how clean energy is stored and managed at sea.”
A spokesperson for Henkel added: “We have a high focus on identifying and collaborating with sustainable opportunities, so being able to work with Grafmarine on this innovative solution for greener energy production in the shipping industry aligns perfectly with our core values.”
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