Base Materials sets a new industry standard in subsea innovation

The need for reliable, efficient subsea vehicles continues to increase as industries such as marine research and underwater tourism grow in size. Innovation plays a key role in enabling subsea vehicle design to evolve with this growth, ensuring unrivalled performance and increasing vehicle safety.

Base Materials has set a new industry standard by becoming the first syntactic foam subsea buoyancy manufacturer to secure DNV type approval for its Subtec® 11500 subsea buoyancy material. Engineered to withstand the extreme conditions experienced at depths of down to 11,500 metres seawater, this innovative material represents a leap forward for crewed deep-sea applications.

The approval showcases Base Materials’ commitment to enhancing reliability, quality and safety whilst adhering to best practices and rigorous performance standards. The achievement is further complemented by the addition of DNV's Approval of Manufacture across the company’s entire subsea buoyancy material range, solidifying its position as a leader in high-performance subsea buoyancy solutions.

When it comes to the deepest and most critically rated subsea applications, the performance of materials and equipment alike are mission-critical for both crewed and uncrewed subsea vehicles. Widely recognised as one of the world's leading classification societies, DNV is an independent expert in assurance and risk management for the maritime industry. While DNV certification is not a mandatory requirement within the subsea industry, it serves as a crucial benchmark for quality and performance.

The rigorous DNV certification process is globally recognised for its high standards. Attaining this approval not only underscores the exceptional quality of Subtec® 11,500 but also demonstrates Base Materials’ commitment to innovation by continually investing in research and development they engineer materials that set the standard in even the most critical applications.

As the industry continues to advance, prioritising quality standards is essential for fostering innovation. The importance of ensuring the quality and reliability of subsea buoyancy materials cannot be overstated. By combining technical excellence with robust manufacturing practices, risks can be mitigated, providing vital safeguards for deep-sea exploration.