Control of biocorrosion to prevent the propagation of invasive species

Abstract

Biocorrosion or biofouling on ships hull occursdue to the attachment of barnacles, mollusks and other aquatic organisms on the surface of ships which leads to increase in fuel consumption, reduction of the vessels speed, premature failure of the hull, etc. Recent developments in antifouling paints, in general, prevent fouling in about 95% percent of the vessels underwater surface, which ship operators find satisfactory as far as the routine vessel operation is concerned. However, this is not sufficient to prevent the transport or invasion of alien species. In recent years the issue of invasive marine species has been receiving considerable attention due to the fact that introduction of nonidegenous species or non-native species transmigrated from other areas to coastal waters often results in the reduction and even extinction of the native species and thereby severely disrupting the natural marine ecosystems. The predominant vector for the transport of nonindigenous species in marine environments has been shipping. While ballast water receives the most attention, hull fouling is now considered to be the most significant means for translocation of these organisms. For example, 90 percent of the 343 marine alien species in Hawaii are thought to have arrived through hull fouling Certain niche areas of the vessel such as bow thrusters, sea chest, stern tube, rudder etc. are the likely areas to be heavily fouled. In addition, the other areas that are likely to be fouled are on locations where antifouling paint has been worn of due to excessive shear and bending of the hull. This paper reviews the various antifouling strategies and aims identify areas on the hull surfaces of certain classes of vessels that are prone to fouling by excessive shear and bending and identify suitable antifouling treatments to further reduce the risk of transportation of alien species.