Antifouling Paints

All structures immersed in a marine environment are subject to the deposition of several organisms such as barnacles, mussels, algae and others. Marine fouling is the result of the growth of these plants and microorganisms on the surface of submerged objects. The presence of fouling has a great impact on the naval industry due to the negative influence on the performance, durability and maintenance of mobile or stationary submerged structures , estimated that fuel consumption increases by around 6% per 100 mm of average roughness caused by fouling attached to ship surfaces. Other relevant factors are the risk of localized corrosion due to the metabolic activity of the attached organisms and the obstruction of turbines in hydroelectric plants. Since the beginning of the history of navigation, many materials have been used in order to minimize the fouling problem. However, the development of antifouling paints began only in the mid of 1800s. Currently, the use of antifouling paints is the most economical and satisfactory method to protect submerged structures. Generally, antifouling paints.