Ministry for Primary Industries

Biocide-Free Hull Antifoul Treatment

Vessel biofouling is a major pathway for the spread of pests and diseases. To mitigate this spread, vessels are removed from the water for the application of antifouling coatings (AFCs). These AFCs, which traditionally contain chemical biocides, are designed to prevent the attachment of fouling organisms. Over time their effectiveness diminishes, necessitating ongoing maintenance of the hull. In-water cleaning (IWC) is an important biofouling management approach for many vessel owners, however, current IWC practices often release viable organisms and elevated discharge of biocides from within the AFCs into the marine environment.
To better manage the biosecurity and environmental risks posed by biofouling on domestic vessels, we need to assess the feasibility of transitioning to biocide-free AFCs across New Zealand’s domestic vessel fleet. This would allow both proactive and reactive IWC to be undertaken without discharging biocides into the marine environment, therefore removing one half of the environmental considerations for this activity.
This project is to obtain the research services required to identify the feasibility, practicality, benefits and costs of using biocide-free antifouling paints on New Zealand’s domestic vessel fleet to reduce chemical contamination risks associated with IWC.

Department/Business Unit: New Zealand Food Safety