Interlux Micron CSC Antifouling Bottom Paint

Interlux Micron CSC Antifouling Bottom Paint

Interlux Micron CSC is a premium self-polishing ablative bottom paint that delivers long-lasting, multi-season protection against marine fouling. Using Micron Technology, this copper-copolymer formula slowly wears away in a controlled way as the boat moves, continually exposing fresh biocide at the surface. That means reliable antifouling performance in fresh, salt, and brackish water without the heavy paint build-up and aggressive sanding associated with many hard bottom paints.

Micron CSC is suitable for both powerboats and sailboats and can be used on fiberglass, wood, and properly primed steel or lead below the waterline. It is not recommended for aluminum hulls or underwater aluminum components. Available in a range of popular colors, it’s one of the most trusted choices for boaters who want proven, easy-to-maintain multi-season protection.

Best Uses

• Multi-season antifouling protection for powerboats and sailboats
• Boats that stay in fresh, salt, or brackish water for extended periods
• Owners who want an ablative coating that minimizes bottom paint build-up and sanding at recoat time
• Boats that are hauled for winter storage and relaunched the following season
• Fiberglass, wood, and properly primed steel or lead hulls below the waterline (not suitable for aluminum)

Key Features & Benefits

• Multi-season ablative protection: Micron Technology provides long-lasting defense against a wide range of fouling in all water types when applied at the recommended film thickness.
• Copper-copolymer formula: Uses a controlled-solubility copolymer with cuprous oxide to maintain an active biocide layer at the paint surface throughout the season.
• Self-polishing, low build-up: The coating gradually erodes in a controlled way, like a bar of soap, helping prevent excessive paint build-up and reducing the amount of sanding needed at recoat.
• Haul and relaunch flexibility: Micron CSC can be hauled for storage and relaunched later without losing effectiveness, provided the film is in good condition and properly cleaned before going back in the water.
• Smoother, more efficient hull: The polishing action helps the bottom remain smooth, which can improve speed and fuel efficiency compared to rough or heavily built-up coatings.
• Versatile application: Can be applied by brush, roller, or spray over most existing antifouling paints that are in sound condition, following the Interlux compatibility guidelines.

Application & System Overview

Micron CSC can be applied over most well-adhered antifouling coatings or directly to properly prepared bare substrates as part of an Interlux paint system. Always read the product label and technical datasheet before starting a job.

• Substrates: Fiberglass, wood, and properly primed steel or lead below the waterline (not for aluminum hulls or drives).
• Existing antifouling: Confirm compatibility with the Interlux antifouling compatibility chart. The existing paint must be aged, tightly adhered, and in good condition.
• Coats: Typically 2–3 full coats are recommended, with an extra stripe coat on high-wear areas such as the waterline, chines, rudders, and leading edges.
• Methods: Apply by brush, roller, or spray using equipment suitable for solvent-based bottom paints, following all safety and ventilation guidelines.

Always stir or shake Micron CSC thoroughly before and during application to keep the copper and resins evenly distributed in the can.

Surface Preparation Overview

Good surface preparation is essential for maximum performance and adhesion. The steps below are a general overview; always follow the detailed instructions on the Micron CSC label and technical datasheet.

Previously painted surfaces – in good condition

• Scrub the bottom to remove slime, salts, and loose growth, then rinse and allow to dry.
• Lightly sand with the recommended grit if required to create a smooth, dull surface.
• Remove sanding residue and apply the recommended number of coats of Micron CSC.

Previously painted surfaces – in poor condition

• Remove loose, flaking, or excessively built-up antifouling by appropriate methods (chemical stripper, sanding, or blasting as recommended for the substrate).
• Once the substrate is clean and sound, follow the bare fiberglass, bare wood, or primed metal system specified by Interlux before applying Micron CSC.

Bare fiberglass

• Remove mold-release agents, wax, and contaminants with the appropriate Interlux fiberglass surface prep products.
• Fair any imperfections as needed with a suitable marine fairing compound.
• Follow either the sanding or no-sand system recommended by Interlux, which may include a barrier coat such as InterProtect® 2000E before applying Micron CSC.

Bare wood

• Sand the surface smooth and clean off dust and contaminants.
• Apply any primers or sealers recommended by Interlux for bare wood systems below the waterline.
• Finish with the specified number of coats of Micron CSC, paying special attention to plank seams and end grain.

Steel or lead (properly primed)

• Prime bare metal according to Interlux recommendations for underwater metal substrates.
• Once the primer system is complete and within its recoat window, apply the recommended coats of Micron CSC.

Application Tips

• Apply only within the temperature and weather conditions specified on the label; avoid very cold, very hot, or extremely humid conditions.
• Use high-quality, solvent-resistant rollers and brushes designed for marine coatings.
• Do not thin the paint more than recommended; if thinning is required, use the specified Interlux thinner and follow the label directions.
• Observe the stated drying and recoat times between coats and before launching the boat.
• After haul-out, clean the coated surface with a stiff brush or light pressure wash before relaunching to reactivate the film.

Always review the full Interlux Micron CSC technical datasheet and product label for complete preparation, application, safety, and dry-time information before starting your bottom paint project.

Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Click here to download the Interlux Micron CSC Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for detailed safety, handling, and first-aid information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Interlux Micron CSC on aluminum hulls or outdrives?
No. Interlux Micron CSC is not recommended for aluminum hulls, outdrives, or underwater aluminum components. It is designed for use on fiberglass, wood, and properly primed steel or lead below the waterline.

Is Micron CSC suitable for freshwater and brackish water as well as saltwater?
Yes. Micron CSC is formulated as a multi-season ablative antifouling paint that can be used in fresh, salt, and brackish water when applied at the recommended film thickness and coverage.

Can I apply Micron CSC over my existing bottom paint?
In many cases, yes. Micron CSC can be applied over most existing antifouling paints that are aged, tightly adhered, and in good condition. The bottom should be cleaned and prepared as directed, and you should always refer to the Interlux antifouling compatibility chart before overcoating.

How many coats of Interlux Micron CSC do I need?
Most boats require at least two full coats of Micron CSC for proper multi-season protection, with an additional stripe coat on high-wear areas such as the waterline, chines, rudders, and leading edges. Bare wood and boats in heavy fouling areas may benefit from an extra coat.

Can my boat be hauled and relaunched without repainting when using Micron CSC?
Yes. One of the advantages of Micron CSC is that boats can typically be hauled for storage and relaunched later without losing antifouling effectiveness, as long as the coating is in good condition. Before relaunching, the hull should be cleaned to remove any surface contamination and light growth.

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