Hydrovest™ 2000 is the new antifouling additive developed by Maflon, in collaboration with the Chemistry department of the University of Pisa, specifically for the marine sector and which promises to transform the way boats are keeping them clean and safe. Thanks to its antifouling action, Hydrovest™ 2000 prevents the formation of algae, fouling and other marine organisms on the surface of the hulls boat on which it is applied. The adhesion of microorganisms is significantly limited compared to an untreated hull and the release of small amounts of adhering organisms is also promoted, ensuring effective protection of submerged components against corrosion and wear.
Moderately small quantities of the additive (≤ 10% w.t. in the matrix used for coating) are required to radically change the chemical-physical properties of the painted hull surface and to perform its fouling release function.
But how does Hydrovest™ 2000 work?
Thanks to its amphiphilic structure, Hydrovest™ 2000 interacts easily with the desired substrate. When immersed in water, the molecules easily adapt to their surroundings and they are placed according to a precise spatial arrangement that aims to prevent the microorganisms’ settling on the surface.
The result?
A surface that is ambiguous for the microorganisms, non-stick, ultra-smooth and without friction. In this way, the Hydrovest™ 2000 polymer interferes with the recognition and the adhesion system of aquatic organisms.
Hydrovest™ 2000 prevents the marine organism’s adhesion on the surface of the boats. As there are no anchorage points, the small amount of bio-vegetative organisms that manage to bind to the hull is really low: the shear stress generated by the movement of the boat results in a reduction of the microorganism’s adhesion of the organism to the hull and consequently in its effective removal.
From an economic point of view, the use of Hydrovest™ 2000 leads to a considerable fuel saving. In fact, it is estimated that a free-microorganisms boat consumes 20% less fuel than a boat with fouling on the hull. Engine efforts are also reduced (leading to longer maintenance times), which results into increased sailing speed.
Hydrovest™ 2000 is also an environmentally safe antifouling additive. Thanks to its biodegradable formulation, its use has no negative effects on marine species and so it can be used safely.
Its strength has been fully demonstrated in various contexts, providing lasting protection against the sediment’s formation on the underwater surfaces.
