Marine biofouling is the accumulation of unwanted biological organisms on surfaces submerged in the marine environment. Biofouling has significant impacts on shipping and marine infrastructure worldwide. Biofouling growth on vessel hulls leads to an increase in hydrodynamic drag as the vessel moves through water, resulting greater operating cost (through increased fuel consumption) and significant environmental impacts as a result of increased emissions. In addition, shipping can act as a vector for the transfer of marine pest species between global regions, resulting in further environmental and economic impacts through loss of biodiversity and impacts on aquatic industries such as aquaculture and tourism.
Defence Science and Technology (DST) undertakes a wide range of research into the prevention and control of biofouling on vessels and equipment, both to ensure the efficient and environmentally-sound operation of our fleet, and to protect the unique Australian marine environment from the introduction of unwanted marine species.
This presentation explained the phenomenon of biofouling, how and why it occurs, its impacts, and some ways it can be prevented, including using 3D printing technology.
It is expected that the presentation will be written up in the August issue of The ANA.
The presentation was not recorded.
The certificate was subsequently posted to Clare, and the “thank you” bottle of wine delivered via an eGift card.
