Azra Advanced Materials is added to the portfolio of the Swiss Technology Fund

Lugano-based Azra Advanced Materials AG has been included in the Swiss Technology Fund portfolio. This means that the company will receive state funding for its energy-efficient ship coatings. The inclusion underlines the technology's potential to make a measurable contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions in the maritime sector.

Lever in global shipping traffic

The maritime sector is responsible for around three percent of global CO₂ emissions. In 2022 alone, international shipping caused around 858 million tons of CO₂. A key driver is biofouling, as the accumulation of microorganisms, plants and animals on ship hulls is known. This increases hydrodynamic resistance and can increase fuel consumption by up to 40 percent, causing economic damage amounting to more than 30 billion US dollars every year.

Biocide-free nanotechnology instead of toxic coatings

Azra has developed a durable, ultra-low friction and completely biocide-free coating system. The technology is based on proprietary, patented nanotechnology and completely eliminates the use of silicone oils and toxic agents. As a result, no harmful substances are released into the marine environment, while at the same time hull friction is reduced, fuel consumption is lowered and CO₂ emissions are sustainably reduced.

Since 2021, the use of Azra coatings has already saved over 20,000 tons of CO₂. These savings have been verified in the operation of commercial fleets worldwide. The technology therefore not only offers theoretical potential, but also measurable climate effects in real-life use.

Contribution to international environmental and sustainability goals

Azra's coatings meet the environmental requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and contribute to several sustainability goals of the United Nations, in particular SDG 14 - Life Below Water. As it contains no biocides or other harmful substances, the technology makes a long-term contribution to the protection of marine ecosystems.

Accelerated scaling through the Technology Fund

With the support of the Swiss Technology Fund, Azra Advanced Materials plans to further expand its international presence in the marine sector. At the same time, it aims to accelerate the development and market launch of a new generation of superhydrophobic coating systems that will further reduce frictional resistance and promote the decarbonization of maritime transport.