Preventative Biofouling Monitoring Technique for Sustainable Shipping

Abstract

Monitoring and evaluating the biofouling status of a ship’s hull and its effects on the vessel’s performance attracts the attention of both researchers and industry. In this study, two types of monitoring equipment were used to observe organism growth on two fishing vessels for approximately six months. Combining underwater photography technology with periodic cleaning methods can effectively prevent the occurrence of problems including hull biofouling. The monitoring system developed in this study is cheap and easy to operate, and can be stored on board and regularly operated by the crew to eliminate various issues below the waterline, which in turn enhances sustainable shipping.