Maritime Glossary
Biofouling
Also known as: hull fouling, marine fouling
The accumulation of micro-organisms, algae, barnacles, and other organisms on a ship's underwater hull.
Status: ActiveVerified: Source confidence: high (94%)
Full Definition
Biofouling increases hull roughness and hydrodynamic drag, raising fuel consumption by up to 30% on heavily fouled vessels. It also poses an environmental risk by transferring invasive species between regions. IMO guidelines (resolution MEPC.207(62)) recommend biofouling management plans and record books. Anti-fouling systems range from traditional TBT-free antifouling paints to silicone foul-release coatings and hull air-lubrication systems. In-water cleaning is increasingly regulated to prevent release of invasive species and coating particles.
Domain Tags
environmentengineeringoperations