Graphite Innovation & Technologies (GIT), an entrepreneurial venture founded by Dalhousie graduates Mo AlGermozi and Marciel Gaier, is revolutionizing the global marine coatings sector. GIT’s inception traces back to the university’s Emera ideaHUB, making strides in reshaping the landscape of global shipping by championing eco-friendly practices.
AlGermozi and Gaier, material engineering students at Dalhousie, forged a visionary partnership in 2016, leveraging their expertise in graphene and wear-resistant technologies. The duo saw an opportunity to marry their research areas, birthing GIT to pioneer transformative marine anti-fouling coatings aimed at enhancing vessel fuel efficiency.
GIT’s suite of specialized coatings, incorporating up to 50 ingredients, including graphene, focuses on optimizing vessel movement through water. By significantly reducing drag on vessels, these coatings aim to curtail fuel consumption, ultimately lessening the ecological impact on oceans while enhancing engine efficiency.
GIT’s innovative approach garnered investment from strategic entities like the Stolt-Nielsen shipping company’s investment arm and entrepreneur John Risley, a major GIT shareholder. Risley not only invested but personally tested GIT’s paint on his vessels, reinforcing his support for all three funding rounds, notably the recent Series A round, raising $10.2 million.
GIT’s journey expanded through the Creative Destruction Lab – Atlantic at Dalhousie, where the company thrived under mentorship and investment, connecting with established entrepreneurs. Additionally, GIT emerged from Dalhousie’s Emera ideaHUB, benefiting from programs supporting early-stage tech startups, aiding in their product prototyping and commercialization.
GIT’s impact is evident, having coated over 150 vessels globally and secured agreements with major shipowners like Stolt Tankers. Their growth entails a new 25,000 square foot facility in Dartmouth, significantly scaling up production. GIT’s partnership with Halifax Transit to apply graphene-based coatings on the Rita Joe ferry aligns with Halifax’s net-zero carbon neutral economy commitment by 2050.
The company’s collaboration with the Mitacs Accelerate internship program further showcases their commitment to nurturing talent and contributing to society. Ten graduate students from Dalhousie are conducting research related to marine coatings, blending academic excellence with industry immersion to tackle environmental challenges.
GIT’s remarkable journey epitomizes Dalhousie’s ethos of fostering innovation and sustainability while propelling the shipping industry toward a greener, more efficient future.
