AkzoNobel, a leading global paints and coatings company, has been selected as the sole supplier of protective coatings for Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye), the largest and highest Ferris Wheel in the world.

Keeping Ain Dubai at its aesthetic best for years to come, AkzoNobel’s highly durable protective coatings will ensure that the massive steel structure, one of the most-anticipated leisure attractions set to open this year, will be durable and have sustainable finishes, said a statement from the company.

Located in the Bluewaters Island and planned as a key tourism hub of the city, Ain Dubai is a 210-m-high structure that will use over 9,000 tonnes of steel, almost a quarter more than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, it said.

Modelled after the renowned London Eye, it will provide 360-degree views of the city and the Gulf, and will also feature a rope climbing platform, which at 150 m will be the highest in the world, it said.

With Ain Dubai, AkzoNobel becomes the protective coatings provider for four iconic giant observation wheels in the world, the others being the London Eye, Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and Singapore Flyer.

AkzoNobel’s successful track-record in supporting such large-scale ventures as well as its technical expertise, superior product and technology, and supply capabilities were deciding factors in winning the contract.

AkzoNobel is deploying its Interzinc 52 primer; the Intergard 475HS, a high-build epoxy providing protection against corrosion; Interthane 990, a high-build epoxy finish coating and Interfine 979 polysiloxane topcoat system for Ain Dubai.

Rajiv Rajgopal, regional director, performance coating Middle East and Africa, AkzoNobel, said: “It is our honour to be associated with such a landmark project that will welcome tourists from around the world.”

“The contract to provide our highly durable coatings solutions underlines our competency in undertaking large-scale projects that require state-of-the-art product technology and service capability,” he said.

Andrea Meconcelli, performance coating director Middle East, AkzoNobel, added: “A highly anti-corrosive system was required to protect the structure from the harsh climate conditions associated with coastal buildings in Dubai.”

“The combination of Interzinc 52, Intergard 475HS and Interfine 979 exceeded the technical requirements of this project. The high-performance coating system from AkzoNobel used for the Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye) will ensure that it stands the test of time,” he added.

All the products of AkzoNobel used for Ain Dubai have been designed to provide maximum protection, even in hot, humid and harsh environments. They also provide outstanding colour and gloss retention, adding to the aesthetics of Ain Dubai, it stated. – TradeArabia News Service