24.04.2025
Artikel Nummer: 52846
Barnacle biofouling threatens decarbonisation efforts
A new study by I-Tech highlights the scale of barnacle biofouling on ship hulls and its impact on emissions. Such fouling can increase fuel consumption by up to 36%, leading to an estimated 110 million t of excess CO₂ emissions and USD 15 billion in extra fuel costs per year.
Of 685 vessels inspected in dry dock, over one third had more than 10% hull coverage, and nearly 20% exceeded 20%. Tankers were most affected, with 90% showing fouling.
I-Tech’s technical director Dr Markus Hoffmann underlined the need for coatings that protect against hard fouling, especially during idle periods. Coatings using Selektope showed minimal fouling, underlining the benefit of investing in effective anti-fouling solutions. (ah)