According to Finnester Coatings, Hybridred is unique by combining fire protection, decorativeness and weather resistance. The smooth surface means it is also dirt and graffiti repellent.

The result of five years of research and development, the coating is applied like a paint. When exposed to fire, the coating forms a ceramic shield that prolongs ignition times and slows down the spread of flame. The coating has been ISO tested for flame spread, heat release and smoke production and is available in any colour on the RAL colour chart. “This is a solution for composite applications where fire-resistance, high mechanical strength and weatherability are needed.”, said Ari Hokkanen, CEO at Finnester Coatings.

The coating is regarded as an answer to the vulnerability to fire of FRP structures and has been applied onto two 28m-long FRP bridges spanning rail tracks in Ormskirk, Lancashire, which were required to be protected against surface spread of flame to standard BS476 Part 7: Class 1. “Hybridred was the only solution found to meet this requirement in an external environment with the additional benefits of good performance for smoke and toxicity”, said Martin Halpin of APB Group, the contractor for the project.

The new technology is now available in Europe, and the company is preparing for sales worldwide.