Bio-repellent agent proves its worth on ship trial

During the trial, the vessel spent two years in active operation with more than 50% of operating time spent in biofouling hotspots. After which, total resistance was calculated to be 7%, compared with a benchmark new vessel that would see an increase in resistance of between 10 and 20%.

“This independent analysis of performance data and the underwater hull inspection provide convincing long-term performance results from a full-vessel application of a Selektope-containing hull coating for a vessel with significant exposure to severe fouling conditions,” said Philip Chaabane, CEO, I-Tech.

Clever compound

The compound was applied to the vertical sides and flat bottom of Laurin Maritime’s vessel Calypso during its first five-year drydock.

Over the period, speed losses experienced by Calypso amounted to 2% when measured against sea trial performance. Data also confirmed that the development rate of added resistance for Calypso amounted to 0.1 % (0.5% to 1.5% is expected).

Selektope is an organic, non-metal compound that works to prevent barnacle fouling by temporarily activating the swimming behaviour of barnacle cyprid larvae, making it impossible for them to settle on the hull.

The compound benefits from high efficacy at extremely low concentrations (0.1% w/w), is ultra-low leaching and offers paint manufacturers the flexibility to boost copper-based paint formulations or replace copper completely.