Clearshield - Attacking Marine Glass Corrosion for 25 Years

Ritec's ClearShield glass renovation and protection system is celebrating 25 years of winning the war against the enemies of marine glass which cause costly and unsightly surface corrosion. Glass in this demanding environment is under constant attack from contaminants such as seawater deposits, weathering and engine exhaust. ClearShield provides a proven solution to this well-known problem and is protecting glass on some of the world's most prestigious vessels, from the QE2 and Princess Cruises' liners to cross channel ferries and superyachts.

Once treated with ClearShield, marine glass is easier to clean and frequency of cleaning can be significantly reduced by following simple maintenance procedures, thereby cutting cleaning time and costs for operators. With the rise in luxury and premium sea travel and increasingly discerning consumers, ClearShield can play a key role in ensuring complete passenger satisfaction. Protected glass resists further contamination, resulting in enhanced visibility and better views, plus improved onboard safety.

Exterior marine glass, such as on the bridge, decks and poolside, is inevitably exposed to the harsh sea environment. Organic (acid) contaminants, such as hydrocarbon deposits from the ship's funnel, will chemically bond and stain the surface, while inorganic (alkaline) substances, such as limescale from seawater can etch the surface of the glass. 'Hidden menaces' - or the surface reactive salts formed by the reaction between acids and alkalis - will also attack the surface of marine glass. Although not subjected to the same contaminants, interior glass on board ship is exposed to general dirt and finger marks, and the build up of soap and limescale on shower screens, for example, looks unattractive and presents a poor image to passengers.

ClearShield has been providing the answer to these problems for the past 25 years. Stefan Roelands, Business Development and Project Manager at Ritec International Marine Services says the innovative technology was first tested on glass in ferries because Ritec felt that if it could work in such harsh conditions, it could work anywhere. ‘The results from these 'floating test labs' were very positive and from these initial tests Ritec discovered the chemistry of glass, the need to protect it like other construction materials, and the benefits of a complete renovation, protection and after care system.’ Ritec soon recognised the technology's potential and ClearShield has become an established solution to glass surface corrosion, not just for marine glass but also for other glazing applications, particularly architectural and automotive.

Although ClearShield can be applied at any time in the life of marine glass, prevention is always better than cure says Stefan Roelands. ‘If left unprotected, marine glass will become corroded beyond the point of no return, leaving ship owners with the expense of replacement. Ritec therefore always recommends treating marine glass with ClearShield as soon as possible after installation of the glass to ensure the best long-term results.’ Also, when applied to new glass at the construction stage, Ritec's extra services includes removal of glue residue from glass protective film, removal of paint or other types of contamination, and final quality control of glass surfaces including detection of scratching or other damage.

Ritec's ClearShield is based on a proven polymeric resin that bonds to the glass surface, providing a durable and totally transparent barrier. It is chemically inert, non-hazardous and UV stable and won't peel, flake or discolour. Just like non-stick cookware, ClearShield protected glass can be maintained without the need for harsh chemicals or cleaning methods, which is a particular benefit for marine glass as the use of detergents is increasingly restricted to avoid contaminating the sea.

Apart from ensuring complete compliance with environmental legislation and the development of specialist versions for sandblasted glass, for example, ClearShield's basic formula remains essentially unchanged. Summing up ClearShield's 25 year success story in the marine glass market Stefan Roelands says, ‘The system has certainly stood the test of time and continues to be specified by ship owners, architects and managers around the world. Indeed, it's just been used to keep glass clean and sparkling for passengers and crew on Cunard's latest luxury liner, the Queen Victoria.’

For further information on the full range of ClearShield products visit http://www.ritec.co.uk.