Review of Biofouling Paints on the Marine Vessel

Abstract

Marine antifouling is an important issue as the adhesion of marine bio fouling organisms on the surfaces of marine vessels and turbines causes extra energy consumption due to increased drag and added mass, decreasing operational efficiency, high maintenance costs, and poor asset life due to increased corrosion on the metallic materials. A number of new anti-fouling paints claimed to be friendlier to the environment, have entered the market since prohibition of biocide containing paints that have been enforced in many areas. Biocide-free paints are considered to be less environmentally damaging and do not need an approval. The present study, reviews on the new advancement in the anti-fouling paints and their suitability towards tropical water conditions.