Preventing biological growth – a new generation anti-biofouling coatings

该项目旨在通过开发一种不需要有毒杀菌剂并利用水中已有铜的“智能绿色”涂层来改进防生物污损技术。生物污垢是不必要的附着和生长在水中的表面；它导致船舶和饮用水系统的严重问题，并破坏基础设施和资本投资。生物污损还具有通过引入入侵海洋物种传播疾病和破坏环境的重大风险。现有的涂料会将剧毒物质释放到水中，造成难以估量的环境破坏。该项目为上述所有问题提供了单一、全面的解决方案。

The project aims to improve anti-biofouling technology by developing a ‘smart and green’ coating that requires no toxic biocides and makes use of copper already present in the water. Biofouling is the unwanted attachment and growth on surfaces in water; it causes significant problems on ships and in drinking water systems, and damages infrastructure and capital investment. Biofouling also carries a significant risk of spreading diseases and environmental damage through the introduction of invasive marine species. Existing coatings release highly toxic substances into the water, causing untold environmental damage. This project offers a single, comprehensive solution for all of the above problems.