Electrochemical system for the prevention of fouling on steel structures in seawater

摘要

A device for preventing fouling organisms in seawater from attaching to the exposed surfaces of a marine vessel, buoy, oil rig platform, or other seawater structure. The antifouling device includes a zinc coating applied to the exposed surfaces of the seawater structure which are susceptible to fouling. When a small negative charge is impressed upon the seawater structure, a Helmholtz double layer forms at the interface between the zinc coating and the seawater which is precludes fouling. The slight negative charge impressed upon the zinc coating also prevents dissolution of the zinc into the seawater which would otherwise be expected.