Trends inantifouling coatings

摘要

Fouling (the growth of shell, weed, and algae on immersed surfaces) is a natural phenomenon that occurs continuously and vigorously in the marine Environment. On ocean-going vessels fouling leads to a significant increase in fuel consumption, as well as loss of speed and manoeuvrability. The most effective solutions to marine fouling to date are the TBT SPC coatings. At present, the suggested alternatives for TBT SPC systems have yet to demonstrate their long term performance under different fouling conditions. Further proof is needed that the increased release of new biocides and their metabolites do not carry unknown enviromental risks.