Why Jotun’s latest fire protection system matters for the energy sector’s future

Jotun launches new coating to advance fire protection

Jotun has introduced Jotachar 1709XT, a new passive fire-protection coating designed to protect steel structures under extreme conditions.

The company announced the launch during ADIPEC 2025 as part of its ongoing commitment to improving safety, efficiency and sustainability in energy infrastructure.

According to Jotun, the coating was developed through a global research, testing and certification programme and is now produced in Oman alongside the full Jotachar range.

The manufacturer said this strengthens its ability to meet regional demand for high-performance, locally manufactured fire-protection systems.

Designed to protect infrastructure and extend asset lifespan

Jotun stated that maintaining steel integrity remains central to its mission of protecting people, assets and the environment.

By maintaining structural stability during fire exposure, Jotachar 1709XT helps prevent collapse, supports evacuation and reduces lifecycle emissions from steel replacement.

The company added that the coating contributes to sustainability targets by extending the lifespan of energy infrastructure and limiting waste from maintenance activities.

Andy Czainsky, Global Category Manager – Fire Protection at Jotun, said: “The energy industry is under pressure to enhance safety while reducing environmental impact.

“Every ton of steel that remains in service represents carbon saving.

“Jotachar 1709XT allows asset owners to meet both objectives – ensuring protection and extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure.”

Tested for performance and certified for hydrocarbon fires

Jotun reported that the new product underwent an extensive testing and certification programme covering over one kilometre of coated steel and 35,000 kilograms of material.

Its patent-pending formulation was certified to UL 1709 standards for hydrocarbon fire and explosion conditions.

The company explained that the coating demonstrates high mechanical strength, fast film build and improved workability at elevated temperatures.

These features support application efficiency and long-term performance in high-risk energy environments.

Strengthening Gulf operations through local production

Jotun confirmed that manufacturing the Jotachar range in Oman represents a key step in improving operational efficiency across the Gulf region.

The facility has an annual capacity of 2.4 million litres, allowing the company to reduce lead times and provide faster supply to local energy projects.

By localising production, Jotun said it can deliver coatings to customers more rapidly while maintaining product quality and consistency.

Ahmad Mohammad, Managing Director – Jotun Saudi Arabia, said: “By manufacturing the Jotachar range in Oman, we’re able to support the Gulf energy sector more efficiently with a proven technology engineered for local conditions.”

The company noted that regional customers also benefit from Jotun’s Certified Applicator Scheme, inspection guidance and Fire Engineering Services, which include loading calculations and passive fire-protection weight optimisation.

Relevance for energy and fire engineering professionals

The launch of Jotachar 1709XT introduces a new option for engineers, fire-protection specialists and asset owners seeking to improve passive fire performance in oil, gas and industrial infrastructure.

By maintaining structural integrity under hydrocarbon fire exposure, the coating supports the objectives of fire engineers, design consultants and safety officers involved in specifying protection for high-hazard environments.

For procurement and maintenance teams, the product’s local production in Oman shortens delivery times and increases availability across Gulf projects.

Certification to UL 1709 standards also ensures compliance assurance for those overseeing safety-critical facilities.

The combination of regional manufacturing, extended asset lifespan and verified performance creates direct operational and safety benefits for energy-sector stakeholders.