Designed with the environment in mind, the centre features a 10,000 sqm undercover tropical planted forecourt, providing a green oasis for guests and visitors. The striking façade, inspired by the Wet Tropics rainforest, not only looks stunning but serves to reduce the building’s energy consumption by shading it from the sun’s rays.
Quality products, sustainable builds
David Vivian, Dulux® Protective Coatings' Regional Sales Manager in Northern Queensland, explains that sustainability was the driving factor behind the project.
"With asset owners and project managers increasingly seeking sustainable solutions, effective, long lasting coatings systems that extend the life of a structure and don't require frequent re-coating are becoming more and more important," David explains.
"For us, the most sustainable solution is one that will last."
Quality protection for a sustainable build
Given the Cairns Convention Centre's proximity to the ocean and its exposure to harsh UV radiation, robust corrosion protection was required.
David recommended a high-performance coating system that satisfied all AS/NZS 23112.1:2014 PUR5 system C4 high corrosivity standards.
The system was spray applied in the yard to all external exposed structural steel and included:
• First coat: Dulux® Zincanode® 402 @ 75-microns (µm) DFT
• Second coat: Dulux® Duremax® GPE MIO Quickturn @ 200-microns (µm) DFT
• Topcoat: Dulux® Quantum® V92 @ 75-microns (µm) DFT
Superior corrosion protection with Zincanode 402
Zincanode 402 was the primer of choice for this project due to its excellent corrosion protection.
"It's a popular choice with applicators due to its ease of application which can save time and effort," David explains.
"And while generally not an issue in Cairns, Zincanode 402 can be used with a cold cure hardener to allow application in cooler environments."
Duremax GPE MIO - a custom coating for Australian conditions
Duremax GPE MIO was a critical component of the protective system. Specifically developed for Australian conditions, its micaceous iron oxide pigmentation provides exceptional barrier protection in severe environments such as the coastal areas of tropical north Queensland.
A highly durable protective coating, Duremax GPE MIO is commonly used to protect structures exposed to the harshest corrosive conditions such as chemical plants, offshore platforms, refineries, ship loaders and coal wash plants.
"It can be applied by spray, brush and roller making it a versatile product for site and yard applications and is available with different hardeners depending on the climate," David says.
Premium finish with a high-tech topcoat
With its fluoropolymer technology, Quantum V92 was the undisputed hero of this protective coatings system.
Commonly used for commercial façades, retail complexes and apartments, Quantum V92 delivers a premium quality finish with superior weathering and gloss retention even in areas of extreme UV radiation.
Available in a large range of Dulux® and Australian standard colours, Quantum V92 provides excellent graffiti resistance and is ideal for structures in public spaces that may be prone to graffiti attack.
"The long-term durability of Quantum V92 minimises costs for the asset owner by significantly extending the period of time between any required maintenance," David explains.
Top quality team delivers a contemporary venue
David points out that the project brought together some of the best in the business:
• Fabricator: Beenleigh Steel
• Architects: COX Architecture & CA Architects
• Blasting and painting contractor: Phoenix Protective & Marine Coating Specialists
"The combination of smart architecture, expert building and fabrication, quality products and flawless application has delivered a world-class venue that will attract Conferences and events from around the world," he says.
