Develop and test active coatings to prevent the growth of unwanted organisms on marine surfaces

Project Outcomes

Unwanted marine organisms grow on all surfaces and environments immersed into seawater. It cannot be prevented completely, posing a threat globally as the organisms spread from one marine environment to another and costing billions of dollars each year for those attempting to eliminate them (e.g. maritime industry and Navy ships/submarines).

A fully developed biofouling community can, after several months of growth on an unprotected vessel, cause up to 40% more fuel consumption due to the additional hull drag and poor manoeuvrability.