16.5 A New Biological Antifoulant for Marine Paints
(Room 234-236)
11 Apr 18
12:00 PM
-
12:30 PM
Tracks:
Session 16: Biobased Coatings, Session 16: Bio-Fouling & Microbial Protection
Antifouling coatings prevent the attachment and growth of marine organisms on surfaces in seawater. Fouling increases surface resistance movement, thereby increasing fuel consumption of the vessels to maintain speed.
After the ban on tin-based antifouling (more than two decades ago), most suppliers start to use copper-based coatings. However, dissolved copper from these coatings systems has increased in certain poorly flushed basins and in crowded marinas exceeding the Clean Water Act standard for copper. Scientific studies have shown high concentrations of dissolved copper in ocean water can affect the growth, development, and reproduction of mussels, oysters, scallops, sea urchins, and crustaceans.
Since 2012, significant R&D resources have been allocated for the development of copper-free antifouling coatings in anticipation of increasing restrictions.
Biomimetx SA a Portuguese biotechnology company developed a mixture of compounds – BMX-11 - produced by a proprietary bacterium, that are biodegradable, cost effective and broad spectrum. We are presenting for the first time this biological biocide, capable of being incorporated in marine paints to replace current toxic biocides, namely copper and that is enviromently friendly.
BMX-11 proved in the laboratory to be active against a wide range of organisms and in raft tests after incorporated in paint showed that is still active against soft and hard fouling (namely algae and tube worms). Raft test took place in several locations, in the presence of different fouling organisms and water temperature.
BMX-11 production is done by bacterial fermentation with very simple downstream processing and it reached industrial scale, showing that can be deliver to industrial customers cost effectively. Toxicological studies showed that BMX-11 is not harmful to mammals. These data allowed BMX-11 to be considered a Biochemical pesticide by US EPA, shortening the registration process that is underway and should be concluded next year.