| Abstract: | The fundamental objective of this work was to formulate antifouling paints giving a high thickness film with a reduced number of coats and having suitable physico-chemical properties and biocidal characteristics for the protection of ships' hulls. Formulation variables studied were WW rosin (gum rosin)/chlorinated rubber (grade 10) ratio, which defines the binder dissolution rate, and the rheological agent content (castor oil), which influences the paints' thixotropic behaviour. Red cuprous oxide, zinc oxide and natural calcium carbonate were used as pigments. Tests were made in the laboratory for evaluating abrasion resistance, adhesion and elongation. Binder dissolution rate of the different paints in artificial sea water and also some rheological parameters of the samples were determined. Service tests were performed on ships' hulls (a destroyer, two light destroyers and an aircraft carrier), showing some paints retaining good antifouling characteristics after 25 months' immersion. |
