Professor Arjan Mol is a global leader in corrosion science and engineering, recognised for his pioneering corrosion research and measurement technique development and leadership. After his doctorate at Delft University of Technology in 2000 for his seminal work on filiform corrosion of coated aluminium alloys, he advanced industrial innovation as Project and Team Leader for Lifetime Performance of Lightweight Structures at TNO Built Environment. Returning to Delft in 2006 and becoming Professor in Materials Science and Engineering, where his research has transformed understanding of local corrosion mechanisms, metal surface treatments, polymer-metal interfacial bonding, and active protective coatings across sectors from aerospace and offshore to automotive and microelectronics. Professor Mol’s groundbreaking contributions include pioneering in situ TEM corrosion studies, integrated FTIR-EIS analyses in Kretschmann geometry, and eco-friendly alternatives to hexavalent chromium-based technologies. His work on active protective and self-healing coatings, coupled with high-throughput inhibitor screening, has paved the way for machine-learning-driven corrosion protection strategies. Combining deep scientific insight with industrial relevance, he has delivered numerous keynote and plenary lectures worldwide, inspiring generations of researchers.
On behalf of the Institute of Corrosion, we extend our warmest congratulations to Professor Mol on this well-deserved recognition. The U. R. Evans Award honours outstanding and sustained contributions to corrosion science, and Professor Mol’s exceptional achievements exemplify the spirit and legacy of this award. ICorr looks forward to celebrating his accomplishments with the corrosion community during the 2026 award presentation and associated events.
What did you aspire to be when you were younger? When I was growing up, I always wanted to run my own business. I actually achieved this pretty early, at 19 I started a mobile wholesale confectionery business inspired by my father, who was a master confectioner. Working alongside him taught me a lot about dedication and craftsmanship. After a couple of years, I sold my business to focus on a career offshore in the corrosion industry.
How did you end up as a corrosion specialist? I started out as a scaffold labourer and then became a painter blaster with Salamis. During my training as a painter blaster, I had the opportunity to work in the Salamis skills centre, which opened doors to roles in training, technical support and project support. My expertise in painting, coating, blasting and integrity risk management naturally led me to specialise in corrosion and coatings control and ultimately the Technical Authority for Bilfinger UK. I’ve backed this up with advanced qualifications, including NACE Level 2 and ICorr Level 3 certifications.
What was your first job like? My early professional career was very hands-on. As a painter blaster, I was responsible for preparing and coating surfaces, always making sure to deliver quality work to client specifications. This role gave me a strong foundation in safety, teamwork and technical excellence and I was recognised as a Qualified Painter Blaster on major offshore platforms. Achieving SQAs OPITO, ICATS and Train the painter qualifications.
How did your career progress after that? After gaining practical experience, I moved into training roles, developing lesson plans and delivering technical courses for painting, blasting and safety. I was promoted from trainee to senior trainer and then advanced to Project Engineer and Technical Authority at Bilfinger. In my current role, I lead QA/QC functions, manage projects and mentor technical teams. I’ve also contributed to digital innovation with the rollout of the Bilfinger UK Coatings App and development of other digital solutions also serve as a technical authority for coatings.
What have you enjoyed most about your career? I’ve enjoyed the variety of projects I’ve been exposed to from new builds and large barge campaigns to decommissioning, installing sea ladders and working in the alternative energy markets. Each project has brought new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow.
What career advice would you give to a young specialist in your field? Based on my experience, I’d advise new specialists to get as much hands-on experience as possible, embrace continuous learning and get involved in professional organisations like ICorr. Building strong relationships with colleagues, suppliers and clients is key to success in this industry.
What’s in store for professionals in your area of expertise? With the ongoing need for corrosion control and asset integrity, I believe the future is bright for specialists in this field. The industry’s shift towards digital solutions and best practice implementation means there are always opportunities for innovation and leadership.
What have you gained from your membership of professional organisations? As Chair of the Surface Treatment Governing Board for ICorr UK and Financial Officer for the Aberdeen Branch, I’ve benefited greatly from networking, knowledge sharing, and opportunities to influence industry standards and training.
What’s your favourite food? My favourite cuisine has to be a full Scottish breakfast with French toast. There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a hearty breakfast – especially when French toast is involved! It’s a real treat and brings back memories of family weekends.
What do you like doing most outside of your professional life? These days, I spend most of my free time with my wife Diane and our children – Leila, Emilia and Isla. Family time is really important to me. In the past, I used to have a large reef aquarium, which I dedicated a lot of time to maintaining. Looking back, I think that’s where my interest in chemistry may have started!
Tell us a secret about yourself, something that might surprise fellow members (and is suitable for print!) A few things might surprise people: I once did a skydive from 13,000 feet in Houston Texas which was an incredible experience. Also as mentioned earlier, I started my own business at 19 a mobile wholesale confectionery business which not everyone knows about. Both experiences taught me a lot about taking risks and following my passions.
The British Coatings Federation (BCF) has presented Malcolm Morris with the Silver Medal Award to recognise his long-standing service and technical leadership in the industry. The presentation took place at the 2025 BCF Awards ceremony on 12th November at Carden Park in Chester.
For over 25 years, Malcolm has contributed significantly to the UK and European coatings industry. He notably chaired the BCF High Performance Coatings (HPC) Group from 2007, where he facilitated close partnerships with organisations such as Highways England and Network Rail. Prior to this, Malcolm led the BCF Marine Coatings Group between 2003 and 2007, and he has consistently contributed to the progress of the Sustainability and Protective Coatings for UK Infrastructure (PCUKI) groups, actively supporting BCF’s mission and initiatives.
Malcolm has enjoyed a remarkable career in the coatings industry since 1978, progressing from a laboratory technician at W&J Leigh & Co. to leadership roles at Leighs Paints and Sherwin-Williams. With over 25 years in research and development, he managed teams responsible for pioneering coatings for major projects such as the Forth Bridge and Cutty Sark, and later provided technical support, training, and inspection expertise for more than two decades. A Chartered Scientist and AMPP Level 3 Senior Coatings Inspector, Malcolm is a Fellow of both ICorr and OCCA and has chaired numerous industry committees across CEPE and British Standards. Even after retiring in September 2025, he remains active as chair and convenor of key standards committees and is now the lead trainer for the British Constructional Steel Association’s Responsible Coatings Professionals course, continuing to champion high standards and training within the sector.
Malcolm said of his award: “All I can say is that I’m very honoured and flattered to receive the award and would like to thank all the many colleagues within my own employment, and the wider community, who have made my career in the coatings industry so fulfilling and enjoyable.
“We are lucky to be involved in such an important industry, and I appreciate the teamwork that helps us to face up to the many challenges that are presented to us all – we are all stronger by working together through the BCF to keep the coatings industry thriving.”
BCF CEO Tom Bowtell commented: “Malcolm has shown outstanding dedication to our industry for many years. His commitment to excellence and collaboration has made a real difference. The Silver Medal recognises his valuable contributions, and we are pleased to celebrate his achievements. On behalf of the BCF and the industry, I offer Malcolm our thanks and congratulations; it is hugely deserved.”
Malcolm Morris on stage at the 2025 BCF Awards receiving the Silver Medal, alongside BCF CEO Tom Bowtell, BCF President Sharon Harte, and awards host Ben Hanlin
The Institute of Corrosion welcomes applications from ICorr members, for this important arising vacancy to deliver and optimise the development of digital content / marketing on behalf of ICorr multiple formats.
Job Title: Digital Content Co-ordinator
Location: Remote Working with occasional Northampton ICorr HQ Visits
Company Name: Institute of Corrosion
Job Type: Part-Time Consultancy (1 – 2 Days a week – part remunerated/part voluntary).
Remuneration: 15K per annum (Reviewed Annually)
Applications: Initially via email to admin@icorr.org attaching CV and Cover Letter. Please use subject header to be ‘Digital content job application’.
Closing Date: Friday 30 January 2026
Target Commencement Date: 2 March 2026 (or earlier)
Job Description:
General
To act on behalf of the Institute of Corrosion (ICorr) in implementing and maintaining digital content strategies that work on specific audiences within the field of corrosion prevention.
To establish and manage short and long-term digital content campaigns to align with ICorr’s objectives.
To report to Digital Strategy working group and the President.
To conduct and lead Digital Strategy working group meetings with regards to the content creation and aligning ICorr’s objectives.
To maintain positive and constructive relationships and providing professional advice and expertise to continually develop (e.g. liaise with other parts of ICorr’s administration and working divisions / governing boards, Council, Trustees, Website Host and Journal and Newsletter Editors to ensure alignment in the messaging across multiple platforms).
To actively help promote and maintain ICorr Website information.
To implement and review the organisation’s social media and email marketing strategies to produce high quality, timely outputs.
Key Requirements
Ability to manage time effectively and prioritise tasks.
Experience in writing and managing digital content / marketing.
Track record in planning and executing strategies geared particularly to Training promotion.
Working knowledge of SEO and content optimisation
Must hold membership of ICorr.
Strong relationships with key corrosion industry stakeholders and professional institutes (PEI’s).
Knowledge of STEM and other career development initiatives.
A collaborative team player who thrives in fast-paced environments.
Creative, proactive, and commercially minded — you think about impact, not just output.
AkzoNobel has extended its Chinese marine coatings partnership to accelerate transition to sustainable shipping.
A strategic agreement has been signed between AkzoNobel’s Marine Coatings business and Winning Shipping in China which will help accelerate the maritime industry’s transition to lower carbon operations.
The two companies have been partners since 2016 and the expanded collaboration will involve AkzoNobel supplying a significant volume of International® coatings for a number of drydocking projects in 2026. Focused on six vessels, it will enhance the fleet’s operational efficiency and environmental performance. At the core of the latest agreement is Intersleek® 1100SR product – the world’s first biocide-free fouling control coating to feature patented “slime release” technology. It delivers outstanding fouling control and significantly reduces hull resistance, helping fleets to save fuel and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
“The outstanding performance of International has been fully validated in our existing fleet, delivering significant fuel savings and enhancing our market competitiveness,” says Yu Shan, General Manager of Qingdao Winning International Ship Management Co., Ltd. This is why we’ve chosen to extend and deepen our partnership. Through this drydocking cooperation, we look forward to more vessels benefiting from these more sustainable advanced technologies, jointly contributing to a greener future for the industry.”
Photo: The Winning Youth bulk carrier is coated with products supplied by AkzoNobel
Following the International Maritime Organization’s introduction of emission reduction regulations, shipping companies are addressing their carbon footprint and actively adopting measures to optimize energy efficiency. China is also speeding up the implementation of its “Dual Carbon” strategy in the maritime sector, promoting the widespread adoption of more sustainable technologies. “We’re honoured to continue and deepen our strategic cooperation,” said Rob Leslie, Commercial Director of AkzoNobel Marine and Protective Coatings in Greater China. “Winning Shipping’s unwavering pursuit of more efficient operations aligns perfectly with our philosophy of helping customers through sustainable innovation. We look forward to providing solid support for the long-term operational efficiency and sustainable development goals of its fleet.”
In addition to Intersleek 1100SR, International will also supply the project with its Intercept® 8500 LPP antifouling coating, which combines linear polishing with an optimized biocide package. This is the highest performing antifouling product within the International range, specifically designed for deep sea vessels.
This agreement was signed during the recent Marintec China 2025 event, one of the world’s leading maritime industry exhibitions.
Hempel A/S has launched the latest addition to the Hempaline Defend family; Hempaline Defend 430, a next-generation tank lining created to help energy operators boost efficiency, minimise downtime and extend maintenance intervals. The solvent-free, epoxy phenolic lining streamlines application, lowers energy use during installation and supports more sustainable operations by reducing VOC emissions and workplace hazards. By combining single-coat efficiency with rapid curing and long-term durability, Hempaline Defend 430 enables asset owners to keep tanks in service longer while lowering lifecycle costs.
Hempaline Defend is a range of high-performance lining solutions engineered for the demanding conditions of the energy and process industries. Designed to withstand corrosion, high temperatures, abrasion and exposure to a wide spectrum of chemicals and solvents, these linings provide reliable long-term protection. By reducing maintenance needs and extending service life, Hempaline Defend helps operators maximise uptime and lower total lifecycle costs. “After a trial application with a major tank builder, customer feedback was that the shorter inspection time, compared to their existing lining, would significantly improve output in their workshop,” Matthew Fletcher, Segment Development Manager, Linings at Hempel A/S commented that: “With Hempaline Defend 430, asset owners benefit from a solvent-free lining that can be applied in a single coat, returned to service quickly and approved even for the most sensitive cargos and with a temperature resistance up to 90°C and strong hydrocarbon resistance, Defend 430 truly offers a versatile one-product solution for storage tanks.”
Key technical highlights: • Solvent-free epoxy phenolic lining for energy storage tanks • Single-coat application at 400 µm (16 mil’s) • Rapid return to service: 3 days at 20°C • Withstands crude oil up to 93°C (200°F) • Approved for potable water (WRAS) and jet fuel (EI1541) • Inspection interval extension up to 5 years (API 652 & 653 compliant with optional glass fibre mat reinforcement) • Compatible with Hempaline Prepare 130 primer for immersion up to 90°C
You can learn more about Hempaline Defend right here.
Oceaneering
Oceaneering Wins ASQE Diamond Award for Quality Excellence
Photo: The ASQE Diamond Award
Houston, Texas – Oceaneering International, Inc. has been honoured with the American Society for Quality and Excellence (ASQE) Diamond Award, one of the most prestigious recognitions in the quality industry. Oceaneering was one of only two companies selected for this award in 2025, reflecting a commitment to performance excellence and innovation.
The Diamond Award is presented to organizations that achieve the highest maturity scores in the annual Insights on Excellence® (IoE) Benchmarking Tool survey. This recognition signifies exceptional standards of quality and continuous improvement, recognizing organizations that integrate best practices into every aspect of their operations.
Oceaneering’s 2025 results demonstrate a progressive Quality culture, as defined in the IoE maturity model, and predictable and consistent delivery of services and products that meet or exceed customer expectations. Winners were recognized during the Excellence Roundtable event in November, coinciding with World Quality Month.
Julie Sitzmann, Director, Quality Solutions, at Oceaneering, said: “Oceaneering is committed to performance excellence, and this recognition reflects that our quality management system and culture are delivering as intended. We are proud to be one of only two companies honoured with the Diamond Award, which highlights our commitment to quality and consistent execution across the organization.”
Learn more about Oceaneering’s approach to Quality.
TÜV Rheinland, (Technischer Überwachungsverein) are a very well-established ICorr/ARL (Argyll Ruane Ltd) Training partner.
They have issued 133x ICorr Training Certifications and 68x ICorr Training Re-Certifications in 2025 alone, from their Shanghai Training Centre.
Jing Anita Fang is the Key Account Manager for TUV Rheinland in China.
Photo: TUV HQ, Shanghai
About TÜV Rheinland
TÜV Rheinland, founded in 1872, is a global leader in technical services, providing safe and sustainable solutions for the interaction between humans, the environment, and technology. Since 1996, they have offered training and personnel certification in China, being Europe’s largest independent education institute. TÜV Rheinland Industrial Services Greater China, comprising world-leading experts, delivers technical inspection, testing, and certification for the oil, gas, chemical, petrochemical, energy, power, construction, and process industries worldwide. Their comprehensive services ensure products and equipment meet market requirements, supporting local industries in developing safely and sustainably.
History with ICorr
In collaboration with Argyll Ruane, TÜV Rheinland has successfully introduced ICorr training to China, becoming the sole ICorr training provider in the country in 2018. On-site training is conducted in coastal cities such as Shanghai, Tianjin, Qingdao, Zhuhai, Qidong, and Zhoushan, where numerous international offshore FSPO and LNG projects are active. During 2024, ICorr, TÜV Rheinland (China) Ltd., and Argyll Ruane (Sheffield, UK) celebrated 7 years’ collaboration, and achieved the 1000th ICorr Certificate issue in China. In the same year, Protective Coating Inspector Training Level II and Level III have been delivered by TÜV Rheinland, where all ICorr surface treatment courses are available for the candidates in China now.
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