Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Finally, it would appear logical that production of engineered highly re-
active nano-particles would afford an alternative, high-tech option. To the
knowledge of the author, however, this has not, as yet, been addressed.
7
Conclusions
The use of antifouling materials has been pertinent since ancient times.
The removal of TBT from control options has provoked change, primarily
through accelerated introduction of organic booster biocides. Through the
ACE project, the most popular biocides were evaluated and, together with in-
formation in the literature, combined usage, persistence and toxicity of some
products (e.g. Irgarol 1051 and diuron) were shown to be likely to cause
damage to non-target organisms, especially phytoplankton, periphyton and
corals. Data necessary for the risk assessments of other booster biocides is
lacking. Options for the future will, in the short term, probably be directed to-
wards copper-based paints combined with the most environmentally friendly
booster biocides. In the medium term, improvements in polymer synthesis
to control release is likely. Research into natural toxin products and their
synthetic analogues, together with investigations into non-stick coatings will
continue, aiming to afford a longer-term solution to fouling. Although not
presently addressed, nano-particle technology might also afford an alterna-
tive option to antifouling in the future.
Acknowledgements
Much of the reported research was supported by the European Com-
mission under the ACE (Assessment of Antifouling Agents in Coastal Environments)
contract (MAS 3-CT98-0178) (a component of the EC IMPACTS cluster). The author is
most grateful to all the scientists who participated in the ACE project and who con-
tributed to the data described herein.
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