Next-generation Chartek 2218E unveiled at ADIPEC 2025

International®, AkzoNobel’s leading protective coatings brand, has unveiled Chartek® 2218E, the next generation of its proven epoxy passive fire protection (PFP) solution, at ADIPEC 2025 in Abu Dhabi (Stand 15038, November 3–6).

Building on over 50 years of Chartek innovation, the new Chartek 2218E sets a new benchmark for onshore hydrocarbon pool fire protection, combining exceptional fire performance, improved efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.

ADIPEC 2025 wrap-up

Relive the debut of Chartek 2218E at ADIPEC 2025. This short event recap captures the launch moments, customer reactions, and insights from our fire protection experts as they introduced the next generation of PFP technology.

Raising the standard for fire protection performance  

Chartek® 2218E achieves a two-hour hydrocarbon pool fire rating in a single-coat application over Charlok® mesh, marking a major step forward for shop-applied steel protection. The patented, boron-free epoxy intumescent delivers the lowest UL1709-certified thickness and weight in the industry for a W10x49 steel section.

This innovation streamlines the coating process, reducing application time, energy use and project delays while maintaining trusted durability and corrosion resistance.

See Chartek 2218E in action in this short demonstration video, showing how it sets a new benchmark in hydrocarbon pool-fire protection with up to two hours of proven performance in a single-coat system over Charlok mesh.

Driving efficiency and sustainability  

Engineered for productivity and cost efficiency, Chartek 2218E delivers:
 

• Up to 50% fewer application hours
• Up to 25% savings in shop-applied costs
• Up to 25% reduction in material use

Fewer coats and faster turnaround translate to lower emissions, less waste, and reduced total cost of ownership while supporting AkzoNobel’s ambition to halve value-chain emissions by 2030.

Proven durability and testing confidence  

Chartek 2218E has been rigorously tested to deliver long-term fire and corrosion protection:
 

• Certified to UL1709 (120-minute pool fire) and UL2431 standards
• Proven performance after ASTM D5894 weathering
• Compatible with a wide range of topcoats, with no impact on long-term performance

These certifications ensure confidence that steel structures remain protected throughout their lifecycle, even in the harshest onshore environments.

Expert insights and launch highlights

The launch of Chartek® 2218E marked an important milestone in passive fire protection technology, combining proven durability with enhanced efficiency and sustainability.
 

Robin Wade, Global Fire Protection Manager at AkzoNobel, commented:
“Chartek 2218E represents the latest evolution in passive fire protection for the two-hour pool fire market. Developed at our UKAS-accredited PFP facility in Felling, it embodies our commitment to innovation and sustainability. The single-coat application with Charlok mesh maximizes productivity without compromising robustness.”
 

Andy Holt, Business Development Manager for AkzoNobel’s Middle East division, added:
“Productivity and workshop efficiency remain key challenges for our customers, and that’s exactly where Chartek 2218E delivers. Early demonstrations have already built strong confidence among applicators and fabricators, who see the benefits in speed, consistency, and ease of use.”

Following its successful debut, Chartek 2218E is now available across the Middle East, South Asia, and Australasia, with additional regional rollouts planned. Customers can contact their local International® sales representative for details on availability and technical support.