Main differences between Foul-Release antifouling paints and traditional self-polishing ones
In the wake of growing ESG pressure towards the maritime industry, the trend is clear: self-polishing antifouling could soon be eliminated, in order to achieve the goal of zero emissions in water. Consequently, the most attentive shipowners have already turned towards non-toxic Foul-Release products to stay one step ahead of the regulations which, as we know, always arrive with a certain natural delay compared to the obvious need.
But what are the main differences between self-polishing and Foul-Release antifoulings?
As marine environmental protection initiatives advance, heavy metals, copper, toxins and microplastics released by self-polishing antifouling paints are coming into focus as they are seriously polluting.
Shipowners and shipyards are used to using them easily and the purchase and application costs are relatively accessible although they have to be repeated at least annually given the short duration in full efficiency.
The problem is that these paints release biocides such as copper and zinc and microplastics, to mitigate encrustations, constantly creating, overall, considerable pollution.
Furthermore, the amount of biocides in the coating decreases during the season, which results in a significant increase in fouling, a lower maximum speed and an increase in fuel consumption. Consequently, shipowners must reapply the treatment every year or, depending on the case, even more frequently, thus incurring high and eternally repeated maintenance costs. The paint removal process also releases toxins that pose a health risk to both the operator and the environment.
Let’s now come to the advantages of Foul-Release treatments.
The Foul-Release products create a smooth and hydrophobic surface on which the dirt gradually rests but which can and must be cleaned with a certain frequency using pressurized water jets, hand sponges, with simple movement (at least 12- 15 kn) or even with on-board radio-controlled underwater drones. With these operations, the hull is kept clean and efficient, the migration of vegetation between different places is avoided and performance remains at the top without dispersing the paint in the water.
The main advantages are therefore:
-Multiple seasons without the need for resets;
-No introduction of particles into the water and therefore better health of the seas and people;
-Increased savings thanks to lower fuel consumption;
-Greater speed
In conclusion:
Savvy shipowners who embrace change can improve the efficiency of their boats and ships while supporting cleaner seas.
Greensailor has developed a complete line of Foul-Release products for hulls of all sizes and immersed metals and it is now possible to purchase them through the reseller/applicator network, improving the cost-benefit-effectiveness ratio with unprecedented longevity, only updating the routine maintenance process fundamentally different from the past. A period of great changes in boating began.