Broads Authority gives green hull coating the thumbs up
The first UK trial of a new environmentally friendly anti fouling paint has been given the thumbs up by the Broads Authority.
One of its navigation ranger’s launches was lifted out after a year patrolling the brackish waters of Breydon Water having been painted with a ‘revised’ Seajet Speed to reveal a good as new hull free of algae and fouling organisms.
The non-toxic, silicone based hull coating, not yet on the market, was specially imported by Marine and Industrial LLP of Worstead, North Walsham for preliminary testing with the Broads Authority. The coating was applied last winter by Goodchild Marine of Burgh Castle.
Dan Hoare, Broads Authority Waterways Conservation Manager, said: “This revised product has more than met my expectations. The boat has come out almost as clean as when it went in. We are delighted to be able to showcase the new technology in hull coating that doesn’t require toxic ingredients to keep the hull fouling free.”
Steve Pierce, manager of Goodchild Marine, said: “I’m very impressed. It’s the best I’ve seen any boat which has been painted with a silicone based product.”
The hull had to be completely stripped down to its gell coat, followed by application of epoxy primer, two coats of coloured undercoat and two to three layers of transparent silicone top coat. While there is the additional preparation with this system, it is expected that no further work will be needed for at least three seasons.
The system works on the basis that fouling finds it very hard to anchor on to the slippery silicone surface, and if it does it becomes dislodged when the vessel begins to move through the water.
Further testing is required and the Broads Authority is considering applying the coating to another of its launches next winter. Rob Mace of M&I stressed that the system is not being marketed as a DIY solution and that application will eventually be via one or two nominated professionals. Initial prices will be available within the next 12 months.
The Broads Authority routinely applies an environmentally friendly peroxide based underwater paint which deters algae to its four trip boats, navigation ranger launches and work boats. This is an alternative to traditional antifouling paint which can cause environmental problems.
11/05/10
