Solutions for more sustainable shipbuilding

With solutions from several of the Group’s brands, the Saint-Gobain Marine BU is a single point of contact for customers and markets specialized in shipbuilding. A solutions-oriented approach to the ongoing quest for lightness, performance and durability that gives rise to a new generation of zero-emission ships. 

Des solutions pour une construction navale plus durable
© Havila Voyages

On land, lightweight construction is essential for reducing the environmental footprint and optimizing the consumption of resources. But on water, lightweight construction is a must: each additional kilogram on a boat increases its fuel consumption and ultimately its carbon footprint. This is why Saint-Gobain Marine is setting course for raising the standard at sea with the help of its light and performing solutions. 

Saint-Gobain Marine is a single point of contact for shipbuilders, naval architects, shipyards and fitters, meeting the needs of all markets (cruise ships, fishing, offshore, wind farms, container ships, etc.) with solutions designed by several of the Group’s brands: Isover, Weber, Vetrotech, SageGlass, Saint-Gobain Sully, Kaimann, Sheergard, Brødrene Dahl, Gyproc, Ecophon, Saint-Gobain Coating Solutions, HKO and Clipso. 

A resolutely solutions-oriented approach that takes highly specialized customer interests and their stringent requirements (IMO certification, fireproofing standards, etc.) seriously. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set targets to reduce carbon intensity by 40% in 2030 and 50% in 2050 (compared to 2008). To reach these ambitious targets, every detail counts. 

Exemplary projects

U SeaProtect® insulation, which is 50% lighter than traditional stone wool, and Weber’s Fireshield Marine floor (30% lighter than standard birch plywood) reduce the weight of ships (and therefore their energy and fuel consumption). Smart glazing like SageGlass Harmony™ helps to optimize temperature control, making ships more energy efficient. 

Saint-Gobain Marine has thus contributed to the Norwegian Havila Castor vessel becoming the first zero-emission cruise ship, in particular as a result of its insulation solutions. 18,000 rolls of U SeaProtect® (Isover) and 28,000 rolls of Glava Marine have been installed on board this 124-meter-long vessel, which is capable of carrying 640 passengers and 70 crew through the fjords. 

Saint-Gobain Marine’s approach is paying off, but goes beyond the carbon footprint. Innovative Crystar® FT ceramic microfiltration membranes (Saint-Gobain Performance Ceramics and Refractories) filter and purify the wastewater generated by the treatment process and help to protect the oceans.