September 21, 2005—International Paint has introduced Interchar technology, an advanced fireproofing material that delivers unprecedented fire protection and anti-corrosion benefits for high-rise buildings and public structures, according to the company, an Akzo Nobel company and global provider of high-performance coatings and fireproofing materials.
Interchar is derived from the company’s proven Chartek technology, developed more than 30 years ago to meet the needs of NASA’s Apollo program, as well as global oil companies for their offshore oil rigs. These industries, the company explains, depend on Chartek to protect steel from volatile hydrocarbon-induced fires, explosions, and jet fires that can reach temperatures of more than 2000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Chartek has had esthetic limitations, but this next generation of technology has created a new thin-film intumescent epoxy material that can be esthetically used for exposed steel designs.
Interchar’s formulation produces faster cure times, superior adhesion to steel surfaces, and an ultra-strong, durable barrier to the steel beam underneath. In addition, explains International Paint, the technology’s inherent flexibility allows it to be fabrication shop-applied in as little as two coats. Together, these attributes can provide up to four hours of fire protection, says International Paint.
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