The objective of this project is to identify environmentally acceptable marine coatings systems that are capable of providing effective and durable antifouling properties to warships. This will lead to increased dry-docking intervals (6-10 years), high ship availability and a reduction in the degree of maintenance required.
This goal wil be addressed through research into novel coating techniques. Different categories of the major components incorporated in antifouling products will be investigated, namely polymeric binders and biocides. Novel binders with self-polishing properties are of major interest. Biocide types to be tested will include both notified biocides with their associated binders, and selectively acting biocides (including natural products and active pigments). Accelerated test methods for assessing coating performance and lifetime will also be developed.