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SMartyr Looks Toward a Bright Future With Its Sustainable Anode
2024 IBEX Innovation Award Interview with CMP Group
Among the attributes of the IBEX Innovation Award-winning SMartyr SCP Anode, two seemingly contradictory features jumped out. The CMP Group’s SMartyr anode was developed to protect marine environments from the pollutants traditionally associated with zinc anodes — and the anode, as designed, competes directly with CMP Group’s own zinc anode product.
“As leaders in the global anode market, we recognize the importance of pioneering sustainable solutions, even if it disrupts our traditional offerings,” said Tyler Seebach, CMP Vice President of Sales. “The SMartyr Anode SCP System embodies our commitment to both innovation and environmental responsibility, positioning us to lead the industry’s future evolution.”
What problem was the SMartyr SCP Anode designed to solve?
The SMartyr SCP Anode was developed to protect marine environments from the pollutants traditionally associated with zinc anodes. Studies show that as zinc anodes degrade or are discarded, heavy metals— primarily cadmium — contaminate waterways. The SMartyr SCP System addresses this by eliminating harmful metal deposits, offering a sustainable corrosion protection solution without environmental risks. *CMP will provide cited studies upon request
Could you describe the difference in the innovation and advances between the SMartyr SCP Anode and other sustainable corrosion protection systems?
The SMartyr SCP Anode simplifies and enhances ICCP, or Impressed Current Cathodic Protection, technology traditionally used in large commercial vessels. Unlike standard ICCP systems, which require complex installations and constant external power, the SMartyr SCP System is a compact, self-sustaining unit powered by a high-efficiency solar panel and rechargeable batteries. This innovation makes reliable corrosion protection accessible to smaller recreational vessels.
Who is the target market for the SMartyr SCP Anode?
Our primary target market includes OEMs (boat, engine, and trim tab manufacturers), where we aim to integrate the SMartyr SCP Anode into new models corrosion protection systems. Following this, we will expand to the aftermarket sector, reaching a broader range of individual boat owners.
Who is currently using the SMartyr SCP Anode?
The SMartyr SCP is a brand-new product that launched at IBEX 2024 and subsequently at METS 2024. Various prototype and pre-production units have been successfully tested in Italy for the past three years.
What feedback have you received?
Initial feedback is that it is working as designed and engineered.
What kind of boats is the SMartyr SCP Anode system being used on?
The SMartyr SCP System targets boats equipped with trim tabs, as this configuration aligns well with the system’s protective range. This focused approach allows us to fine-tune performance before expanding to larger surface areas.
In what ways has it changed the boatbuilding process?
Although still in the early stages, we anticipate that the SMartyr SCP Anode will simplify corrosion protection in boatbuilding. Currently, builders must choose from three anode types, based on water composition. The SMartyr system eliminates this complexity, providing a universal, eco-friendly solution adaptable across environments.
Are any builders or installers using the SMartyr SCP Anode?
Not yet, but we received significant interest at IBEX, with several builders eager to explore the potential of integrating the SMartyr SCP Anode into their vessels.
Why will a customer opt for the SMartyr SCP Anode over what is currently available?
Customers will select the SMartyr SCP Anode for two primary reasons: Its eco-friendly design that actively reduces marine pollution; and its groundbreaking, user-friendly technology that offers reliable and consistent protection.
Do you think this product will reshape the market for cathodic protection?
Yes, we believe the SMartyr SCP System represents a major disruption in the way cathodic protection is provided. As we advance this technology, it will provide a cleaner alternative to traditional anodes, shifting the industry toward more sustainable practices.
Do you think it addresses current environmental concerns? Does it address potential future environmental industry regulations?
Absolutely. The SMartyr SCP System supports current environmental objectives by eliminating the harmful metals present in traditional zinc anodes, replacing them with a safer, eco-friendly alternative. Designed with future regulations in mind, it offers a sustainable solution that reduces marine pollution, making it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious boat owners.
What obstacles arose during the R&D process?
Key challenges during the R&D process included:
• Establishing the programming to account for various environmental conditions
• Selecting the optimal solar panel to work efficiently underwater
• Ensuring the unit’s waterproof capability, given that it will remain continuously submerged
• Sizing the device to balance the solar power available with the power consumption requirements of the impressed current cathodic protection system
What plans are in place for the future of the SMartyr Anode?
Our development roadmap includes larger units to cover greater surface areas, flexible mounting options, and enhanced connectivity features, including Bluetooth integration and a mobile app for real-time monitoring.
What impact do you see the SMartyr Anode having on the boating industry?
The SMartyr SCP System has the potential to redefine corrosion protection in the boating industry by replacing sacrificial anodes with an eco-friendly, self-sustaining solution. It addresses today’s environmental concerns and is poised to meet future regulatory standards, positioning it as a key innovation in sustainable marine technology.
One of the details that struck me during the IBEX Innovation Awards judging process was CMP pointed out that CMP’s market includes traditional anodes, and yet CMP developed this “SMartyr” anode. Can you speak to why you are developing a product that competes with your own current market?
As leaders in the global anode market, we recognize the importance of pioneering sustainable solutions, even if it disrupts our traditional offerings. The SMartyr SCP System embodies our commitment to both innovation and environmental responsibility, positioning us to lead the industry’s future evolution. We believe it’s better to drive this change ourselves than to wait for external forces to reshape the market, ensuring we deliver advanced technologies that benefit both boaters and our planet.
Theresa Nicholson is an award-winning journalist who’s covered the marine industry for 25 years. She is the former senior editor of Cruising World, a judge for Newport for New Products, and a judge for the IBEX 2024 Innovation Awards program. She’s covered past IBEX shows for Soundings Trade Only, Practical Sailor, and Cruising World. Nicholson lived aboard her 31-foot ketch for 11 years and sailed from Miami to Malaysia. Her work currently focuses on weather, marine safety, risk analysis, and high latitude sailing.
