The surface preparation was done under the supervision of the contractor representatives, the existing antifouling paint system was fully removed with abrasive sweeping with mineral media down to the carbon fibre substrate (complete removal of existing paints), while contamination and dust were removed by high pressure washing.
The vessel was docked and set on a hard stand and the underwater hull was completely tented to shelter it from external weather conditions and contamination. Positive and negative ventilation was implemented as well. The surface preparation was carried out before the attendance of the Hempel coating advisor and it was inspected before the application of the first specified coat.
During the paint application, wet film thickness was monitored in order to apply the specified dry film thickness.
Upon completion of the surface preparation on the underwater hull, the first and second specified coats were applied. The painting area was prepared with plastic cover (tent type) surrounding the hull and with full functioning positive and negative ventilation. The first specified full coat was applied by airless spray on the entire underwater hull and the central fin (except for the non visible part). The second specified full coat (Silic One Tiecoat) was applied by airless spray. Wet film thickness was constantly checked and found according to the specified.
Finally, the final silicone full coat was also applied on the underwater hull. The vessel was launched 12 days after the last coat application on the underwater hull.