Tributyltin chloride (TBT) — a biocide in anti-fouling paint used on ocean vessels for 40 years — has been banned since 2008. Though highly effective at preventing or slowing the growth of organisms on a ship's hull, it was found to be toxic, causing a range of problems for marine life, including growth retardation and the development of male characteristics in females.
Since then, some companies have been on the hunt for a coating that will prevent bacterial buildup on the ship, improve performance and be safe for the environment. One Dutch paint and chemicals firm, AkzoNobel, thinks they may be close to producing that perfect coating.
David Williams, the company's R&D director, says its Intersleek fluoropolymer coating is not only safe, it effectively reduces fouling on the ship, which reduces drag. Because of how this boosts the ship's performance, AkzoNobel say their paint can reduce green house gas emissions by up to 9 percent.
This video by C&EN shows more on the development of the company's breakthrough polymer coating.