Thermoplastics sheets for protecting sub-marine structures

摘要

A 0.005-0.020 inch thick thermoplastic sheet containing 20-80 weight percent metal alloy biocide particulate, such as 50 micron copper powder, protects submarine structures from adhesion of flora and fauna. The sheet is isotropic and inelastically deformable in the plane of the sheet. The sheet is heated to form and adhere it to the ship hulls and the like. An intermediate lower melting point film and other aids are employed in the adhering step. Heating of the sheet prior to the adhering process minimizes liberation of environmentally harmful volatiles. The sheet is removable by heating, so the material may be recycled.