Do you want to combat underwater growth in an environmentally friendly way? Then the brand new International B-Free system is the perfect fouling release system for you! In this article we explain everything about this biocide-free paint system.
What is International B-Free?
International B-Free Explore is the first paint system in International's new biocide-free range. This revolutionary underwater coating has been developed to control fouling by providing a smooth silicone surface that micro-organisms cannot adhere to.
International B-Free consists of 3 products:
- International B-Free Explore
B-Free Explore is a premium, biocide-free, foul-release technology for use on the underwater hull. The underwater coating has a satin finish layer and offers boat owners the same benefits as a conventional antifouling, only without the use of biocide. As a result, B-Free Explore has minimal impact on the aquatic ecosystem. - International B-Free Tiecoat
B-Free Tiecoat is a 2-component primer specially developed for use in combination with B-Free Explore or for use on top of B-Free Conversion Coat as part of a conversion paint system. - International B-Free Conversion Coat
Has your boat been treated with a conventional antifouling? Then use B-Free Conversion coat to seal it. After this, you can continue building the B-Free system by applying Tiecoat and Explore over the conversion coat.
What are the benefits of B-Free?
International's revolutionary system has many similarities with conventional antifouling, but is distinguished by the lack of biocide and the simple application.
Benefits of International B-Free:
- Simple system consisting of three products (antifouling, primer & conversion primer).
- Completely free of biocide which minimizes the impact on the aquatic ecosystem.
- Prevents the growth of micro-organisms such as algae, mussels and pox.
- Reduces resistance while sailing, resulting in better sailing performance and reduced fuel consumption.
- B-Free is suitable for use on all surfaces.
How does B-Free Explore work?
B-Free Explore is based on a specially developed silicone polymer technology. The fouling-release coating results in a very smooth surface to which organisms such as smallpox, tube worms, algae and mussels cannot adhere. B-Free Explore has been specially developed for pleasure boats and consists of a unique formula with both water-repellent (hydrophobic) and water-attracting (hydrophilic) properties. Does fouling build up if your boat has been stationary for a while? Due to the smooth coating, this will naturally come off due to the resistance while sailing. You can also easily remove this growth yourself with a cloth or high-pressure sprayer.
Switch to the B-Free system
The B-Free system has been developed in such a way that you can apply it to almost any surface in just a few steps. Read more about the different surface preparations and the application of International B-Free below. An overview can be found in the B-Free Manual.
Surfaces that are in good condition and have been treated with conventional antifouling (all surfaces)
- Spray the surface under high pressure and roughen it well with a coarse scouring pad to remove all loose paint.
- Apply 1 layer of B-Free Conversion Coat.
- Apply 1 layer of B-Free Tiecoat.
- Apply 2 layers of B-Free Explore.
Surfaces that are in good condition and have been treated with an International foul-release coating
- Spray the surface under high pressure. Then thoroughly clean/degrease with Super Cleaner and tap water. Rinse with clean water.
- Apply 2 layers of B-Free Explore.
Untreated surfaces (wood, aluminum, lead, iron/steel)
- Apply 5 layers of Interprotect.
- Apply 1 layer of B-Free Tiecoat.
- Apply 2 layers of B-Free Explore.
Gelcoat (polyester) surfaces that have been treated with osmosis prevention system
- Apply 5-6 layers of Gelshield 200.
- Apply 1 layer of B-Free Tiecoat.
- Apply 2 layers of B-Free Explore.
Gelcoat (polyester) surfaces that have been treated without osmosis prevention system
- Apply 1 layer of Gelshield 200.
- Apply 1 layer of B-Free Tiecoat.
- Apply 2 layers of B-Free Explore.
Wooden surfaces
- Apply 3 layers of Interprotect.
- Apply 1 layer of B-Free Tiecoat.
- Apply 2 layers of B-Free Explore.
More information about International B-Free
Would you like more information about International's biocide-free antifouling system? Please feel free to contact our specialists!
In the boat maintenance category you will find everything you need to maintain your boat. With an extensive range of antifouling, boat paint, primers, auxiliary materials and polishing agents, we have the right products for your job!
