The term usually used for the growth and settlement of marine animals and plants on submerged structures is fouling. The two types of fouling include:
- Micro-fouling to include slime organisms such as bacteria and other unicellular algae
- Macro-fouling to include animal and plant fouling
Colonies of these fouling species exceed more than 4,000 varieties. These species have the potential to grow and settle in all types of submerged surfaces.
The bioactive ingredients are the usual formulation of the water-soluble and specialised coating of antifouling paints. The growth of marine organisms, barnacles, and algae is slowed to a great degree with the application of antifouling paints to the hull of the boat.
Conventional and self-polishing are the two main categories for antifouling paints. The properties of the paints are determined by their binders, proportions, and quality.
Conventional antifouling paints
Contact leaching is the principle that works for conventional antifouling paints. Fouling is prevented with the biocide-packed insoluble resin is formed upon application of the paint. The time and chemically-controlled release of the biocide provides the leaching process. However, a steady decline of the paint is expected which means that it has to be reapplied as the need arises.
Self-polishing antifouling paints
One of the most preferred antifouling paints applied to sea-moving vessels is the self-polishing antifouling paints. The controlled way of breaking down the resin binders as a vessel is immersed makes for a continuous fresh biocide layer. This is due to the partially soluble component of the paint once in contact with water.
Importance of Antifouling Paints
The surface of a boat’s hull can be rapidly colonised by the varied fouling marine species if left unchecked. A colony of growing marine and plant species on the hull can:
- Decrease the boat’s performance
- Increase the cost and consumption of fuel
- Damage the boat’s propellers
- Block the boat’s water outlets and inlets
- Damage the surface of the boat’s hull by boring right into it
Using the right type and kind of antifouling paint spells the difference between boats performing at their best to ones that perform under par. Costly damage to the various components of the boat is also prevented from happening with the protection provided by the right kind of antifouling paint.
Top Advantages of Antifouling Paints
Various marine organisms are prevented from sticking and growing on the surface of the boat by antifouling paints. The top advantages of antifouling paints include:
Protection for the boat’s structure
The structure of the boat can get damaged when barnacles and mussels start growing on it. The wood or fibreglass underneath the boat can become fissured and cracked with the growth of these types of hard shellfish. Notwithstanding, regular paint can easily be cut through by the sharp and hard shells of these organisms.
Killing them off through antifouling paint is the best way to prevent them from sticking to your boat.
Decreases boat drag
Resistance in the water increases when the hull of the boat is coated with marine organisms. The biocide ingredient found in antifouling paints prevents these marine organisms from latching on to your boat. Boat drag is prevented from happening in the first place with the application of antifouling paints on the boat’s surface.
One of the important substances boat owners must consider is the use of antifouling paints. Contact us to know the right type and kind of antifouling from Spraytech Marine.