International®, AkzoNobel’s protective coatings brand, officially launched Chartek® 2218E, the next generation of its epoxy passive fire protection (PFP) solution, at ADIPEC 2025 in Abu Dhabi.

Building on more than 50 years of innovation and proven performance within the Chartek range, Chartek 2218E delivers enhanced performance and efficiency. This latest coating innovation sets a new benchmark 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 patented, boron-free epoxy intumescent offers the lowest UL1709-certified thickness and weight in the industry for a W10x49 steel section. The streamlined application process enables faster project turnaround, lower energy consumption, and reduced risk of delays, all while upholding the highest safety and environmental standards.

Delivering up to 50% fewer application hours, up to 25% savings in shop-applied costs, and up to a 25% reduction in material use, the new Chartek 2218E coating is engineered to drive greater efficiency for both fabricators and applicators.

In addition to UL 1709 120-minute pool fire performance, Chartek 2218E has been tested against ASTM D5894 and certified to UL2431, without a prescribed topcoat, providing fire performance after weathering and freedom to prescribe a cosmetic topcoat without impact on long-term performance.

Launching at ADIPEC, one of the world’s largest and most influential gatherings for the energy sector, provides the ideal stage to showcase the product’s efficiency and performance.

“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,” Robin Wade, global fire protection manager at AkzoNobel, says. “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,” adds Wade. “Its patented polysiloxane-modified epoxy technology means steelwork can be stacked with minimal damage, enhancing throughput and overall fire efficiency.”

“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,” notes Andy Holt, business development manager of AkzoNobel’s Middle East division. “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.”

Chartek 2218E will be available to customers across the Middle East, South Asia and Australasia from November 2025, following its launch at ADIPEC, with further regional rollouts planned. Customers can contact their local sales representative for details on regional availability.