AkzoNobel’s protective coatings brand, International, officially unveiled Chartek 2218E, the latest evolution of its renowned epoxy passive fire protection (PFP) solution, at ADIPEC 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
Building on over 50 years of innovation within the Chartek range, Chartek 2218E combines trusted protection with enhanced efficiency and performance. The coating sets a new standard in hydrocarbon pool fire protection, achieving a 2-hour rating in a single-coat application over Charlok mesh. Designed specifically for shop-applied steel, the boron-free epoxy intumescent offers the industry’s lowest UL1709-certified thickness and weight for a W10x49 steel section.
The streamlined application process allows for faster project completion, lower energy use, and reduced risk of delays while maintaining strict safety and environmental standards. Chartek 2218E reduces application hours by up to 50%, cuts shop-applied costs by up to 25%, and decreases material usage by a similar margin, delivering efficiency gains for fabricators and applicators. Its durability, corrosion resistance, and reduced energy demand contribute to sustainability goals and improved total cost of ownership, supporting AkzoNobel’s ambition to halve emissions across its value chain.
Customers can rely on Chartek 2218E’s technology platforms, which have demonstrated proven performance in real-world conditions. The coating provides UL 1709 120-minute pool fire protection, has been tested against ASTM D5894, and certified to UL2431, all without a prescribed topcoat. This ensures fire performance even after weathering and offers the flexibility to add a cosmetic topcoat without affecting long-term protection.
Launching at ADIPEC, one of the world’s most significant energy events, offered an ideal platform to demonstrate Chartek 2218E’s performance and efficiency. Attendees had the opportunity to view product samples and engage with experts, while a dedicated dinner on 5th November featured a presentation highlighting the coating’s value to projects.
Robin Wade, Global Fire Protection Manager at AkzoNobel, said, “Chartek 2218E represents the latest innovation in passive fire protection for the large two-hour pool fire market, which is critical for many oil and gas assets. Developed at our UKAS-accredited PFP facility in Felling, it reflects our continued commitment to investing in innovation and sustainability in structural fire protection. Chartek 2218E can be applied in a single coat with Charlok mesh, maximizing productivity without compromising robustness and durability. Its patented polysiloxane-modified epoxy technology means steelwork can be stacked with minimal damage, enhancing throughput and overall fire efficiency.”
Andy Holt, Business Development Manager for AkzoNobel Middle East, added, “Feedback from customers highlights that productivity and workshop efficiency remain some of the biggest challenges in oil and gas construction, and that’s exactly where Chartek 2218E delivers. Early demonstrations have been met with strong confidence from applicators and fabricators alike, who see the benefits first-hand in speed, consistency and ease of application. Maintaining that close collaboration with our customers is what drives continuous improvement and long-term trust.”
