INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS

Project title: Ultrasonic Antifouling 

Biofouling has consistently been a major problem for the marine industry. The unwanted settlement of these organisms on the hulls of marine vessels have impacted hull roughness, potentially damage coatings, and increase the drag penalty of vessels which consequently substantially increases fuel costs. Additionally, the environment is impact due to the transportation of non-indigenous species. 

This research study aims to understand the efficacy of ultrasound on the settlement and removal of marine biofilm on commercial coatings for marine vessels. Silicone-based, foul release coatings are subjected to various ultrasound treatments. Ideally, the synergistic effects from the acoustic vibration from the ultrasonic waves coupled with the surface properties of foul release coatings would effectively mitigate the settlement of fouling and promote its removal.