Environmentally safe epoxy adhesive-copper hull coatings and coating methods

摘要

The present invention describes environmentally safe marine vessel hull coating formulations for outer surfaces of marine vessel surfaces, specifically designed to comply fully with existing and anticipated environmental regulations. These formulations present water ingress, galvanic corrosion, wood decay, worm ingress, attachment by grass, algae and marine organisms, flex to accommodate to hull motions and protect against impact damages, and may last for 20 years of the economic life of the vessel. These formulations embody specific encapsulation techniques that allow aluminum and large steel hulls to use the advanced coating products since they do not contain toxins or co-toxins thereby eliminating the concern about the existing TBT exemptions. The specific materials which are applied to the marine vessel hulls include an epoxy adhesive resin mixed with copper powder and a thixotropic agent to cause the coating to maintain its shape and configuration while curing. Also included are grass and algae retardants consisting of pH reducers as well as biocides. The use of isopropyl alcohol is also described along with a unique hardener. A relationship between the particle sizes of the thixotropic agent and the copper powder is described. Their mixing procedures, mixing ratios, storage procedures, packaging procedures, shipping procedures, application procedures and maintenance procedures are also fully disclosed. Also disclosed are the specific formulation variables to adapt the products to meet a wide range of end user specifications.