Comprehensive Biological Laboratory Efficacy Testing of Marine Coatings
Abstract
Biofouling of seafaring vessels is a persistent and problematic issue for the U.S. Navy, whichinadequately addressed, can result in substantial increases in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, the global spread of invasive nuisance species, and impairment of vessel operational efficiency. Historically, the Navy has used metal-based antifouling paints to ameliorate the detrimental impacts of ship hull fouling. However, the 2008 ban by the International Maritime Organization of organotin-based antifouling paints, and the increased environmental scrutiny of copper-based technologies, has heightened the need/identification of replacement, ecofriendly alternatives. The Office of Naval Research, through its Biofouling & Coatings Program, has actively funded the development of such non-toxic coating systems to serve as a viable biofouling control solution. As part of this effort, nascent coating technologies must be rigorously characterized, evaluated and reformulated to optimize key biological and material properties prior to undergoing more costly and labor intensive assessments via raft-panel ocean immersion trials or ship hull patch testing. The primary objective of this project is to aid and accelerate this coatings development process by leveraging NDSUs extensive marine biofouling laboratory testing capabilities, which employs laboratory automation, customized robotics, rapid testing strategies and a suite of relevant marine fouling organisms to provide year-round efficacy testing for ONR coating PIs. The utilization of NDSUs testing capabilities will enable coating developers to rapidly optimize coating systems for robust, broad-spectrum antifouling properties while ensuring a non-toxic effect or mechanism of activity, thus meeting the environmentally mandate of the program.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 29, 2020
- Source ID
- N000142012236
Entities
People
- Dean C Webster
Organizations
- North Dakota State University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy