AkzoNobel’s protective coatings brand, International, has announced the launch of RELEST Wind EP Process Coat, a fast-drying epoxy in-mould gelcoat developed to help wind blade manufacturers simplify application, improve throughput, and strengthen health and safety performance. The product, which will be available in Europe and China, is designed for customers who prefer an in-mould gelcoat as part of their wind blade production process and forms part of the market leading RELEST blade protection range.

Unveiled today at JEC World 2026 in Paris, RELEST Wind EP Process Coat is a solvent-free, epoxy-based, amine-cured process coat that delivers an improved HSE profile by eliminating the use of isocyanates and simplifying mixing. Easy to use and with a lower tendency for pin-holing, it can reduce the need for additional finishing work, helping manufacturers increase production output and reduce the overall cost per square meter.

International® estimates the product can support faster cycle times by enabling application when the mould is hotter (up to 50°C compared to 40°C for traditional process coats), reducing waiting time for the mould to cool. This can deliver potential time savings of up to 1.75 hours*, helping to significantly improve productivity in high-volume blade production environments. 

In a representative production scenario, International® estimates the use of RELEST Wind EP Process Coat can reduce total coating time from around 8 to 10 hours when applying a single 200-micron layer across 150 m², depending on ambient temperature and site conditions. 

RELEST Wind EP Process Coat, validated through both laboratory and customer field trials, also aims to streamline production by reducing equipment cleaning requirements and minimizing process interruptions. Benefits include reduced risk of cross-contamination, less waste from partially used units, simplified joint coating procedures between blocks and modules, reduced emissions, and easier maintenance and repair applications. 

“As manufacturers expand capacity to keep up with the growing global demand for wind energy, protecting people is just as important as protecting performance,” said Uwe Pinzer, Global Business Sales Manager, Wind Energy, at AkzoNobel. “RELEST Wind EP Process Coat reflects our commitment to helping customers strengthen their health and safety standards while maintaining the quality required for high-performing blades. It’s part of how we support the industry’s shift towards cleaner, more modern manufacturing practices that are better for teams on the factory floor, as well as boosting production productivity.” 

International showcased RELEST Wind EP Process Coat at JEC World 2026 in Paris, 10 -12 March, at booth 5E24. 

The launch further reinforces the position of International® as a whole-system supplier for wind energy assets, providing a ‘tip to toe’ approach for protection. With complete coating solutions for foundations, towers, and blades, helping customers balance productivity, safety, and sustainability as global wind manufacturing scales up.  

RELEST Wind EP Process Coat will become available for customers in Europe and China this year. Visitors can learn more about the RELEST Wind range and the International® portfolio for wind energy assets by visiting https://www.international-pc.com/en/in-focus/wind-energy.

*when compared to a standard process coat