The primary objectives of the proposed effort are to further develop a novel, proprietary technology (Alternating Current Anti Fouling "ACAF") which applies a rapidly alternating electric field to layers of conductive and insulating films to minimize or prevent attachment of aquatic organisms to a submerged surface. Principals of this technology have been proven under laboratory conditions utilizing barnacle larvae (Balanus Amphritete) as the target species. Results indicate that high frequency electric fields disrupt the settlement process of cyprid larvae, resulting in substantially reduced fouling coverage on treated surfaces. The Phase I effort will focus on further optimization of the electrical properties of films, of the electric field variables (frequency, voltage, duty cycle) and methods of connecting and transferring power. The project will incorporate a field validation trial using static immersion panels deployed at a test site with heavy macro fouling. Subsequent efforts will be directed toward a progressive "scale up" of the technology for ship and industrial applications.
Keywords: Environmentally Friendly Alternative Anti Fouling Barnacles Long Lifetime Non-Toxic Ac Electric Fiel
