PPG wins ACS green chemistry award for SIGMAGLIDE 2390 coating
PPG received the 2026 Green Chemistry Challenge Award from the American Chemical Society for its PPG SIGMAGLIDE 2390 coating. Recognized in the Design of Safer Chemicals category, the biocide-free technology can reduce power consumption by up to 20% and CO2 emissions by up to 35%. The coating helps vessel owners improve fuel efficiency and avoid the release of antifoulants.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
PPG has received the 2026 Green Chemistry Challenge Award from the American Chemical Society (ACS) Green Chemistry Institute for its PPG SIGMAGLIDE 2390 coating. The company was recognized in the Design of Safer Chemicals category for the biocide-free, silicone-based fouling release technology. This innovation helps vessel owners and operators improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and avoid the release of antifoulants into marine environments.
The ACS Green Chemistry Challenge Awards acknowledge technologies that advance sustainability through innovative chemistry while delivering environmental, economic, and performance benefits. "This recognition from ACS underscores the role innovative solutions can play in addressing complex sustainability challenges," said David Bem, PPG senior vice president, science and technology, and chief technology officer. He noted that the coating eliminates the need for biocides and is suitable for electrostatic application, a method that helps reduce overspray and waste during dry dock applications.
Marine biofouling on vessel hulls increases hydrodynamic drag, leading to higher fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. PPG SIGMAGLIDE 2390 coating incorporates PPG HYDRORESET technology, which senses the presence of water and reorganizes the coating surface at the nanoscale. This creates an ultrasmooth, ultra low-friction interface that prevents marine organisms from permanently attaching to the hull.
Third-party evidence following ISO 19030 and the International Towing Tank Conference standards demonstrates the coating's performance capabilities. The data indicates potential power savings of up to 20% and potential reductions in CO2 emissions of up to 35%, depending on vessel type and operating conditions.
"The marine industry is increasingly focused on solutions that improve operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact," said Amy Ericson, PPG senior vice president, Protective and Marine Coatings. She emphasized that the technology allows ship owners and operators to achieve sustainability goals without compromising performance.
| Metric | Potential Benefit |
|---|---|
| Power Savings | Up to 20% |
| CO2 Emissions Reduction | Up to 35% |
The award aligns with PPG's commitment to developing sustainably advantaged solutions. The company reported net sales of $15.9 billion in 2025 and operates in more than 50 countries.
How will this award influence PPG's market share in the marine coatings sector against competitors developing similar sustainable technologies?
What are the plans for scaling the production of SIGMAGLIDE 2390 to meet potential increases in global demand?
Could the HYDRORESET technology be adapted for other industrial applications beyond marine hull coatings?

























