Partner Article

North East scientists treat poignant 9/11 memorial

Scientists in the North East have played their part in the creation of a US Navy vessel built from steel recovered from the rubble of the World Trade Centre as a poignant reminder of the events of 9/11.

The USS New York, which made its maiden voyage late last year, has been treated by specialist marine paint developed on Tyneside at International Paint’s Felling plant.

The vessel is coated with over 100,000 gallons of specialist marine paint which was developed at the company’s research and technology centre on the South bank of the Tyne.

The bow of the ship has been built with 7.5 tonnes of steel from the World Trade Centre.

“We are honoured that our products have been chosen to be used on this symbolic vessel,” said a company spokesperson.

International Paint is the largest private-sector employer in Gateshead and is currently in the process of investing £6.4m in a new testing laboratory for its fire protection products.

The new facility, due to be completed next year, will create 14 jobs, and secure a further 30 at the site.

The company supplies military and commercial clients all over the world with fire protection coatings, used to protect steel structures such as buildings and oil and gas installations and ships.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .