Validation of effectiveness of new marine biocides in paint formulations span over years in order to meet the expectations and requirements of ship owners.
Long-term efficacy data from actual ships is needed before a new marine paint formulation can be launched.
Initial collaborations have therefore started between I-Tech and marine paint companies with an interest to extend or alter the biocides they currently use in their antifouling paints.
As the maritime industry is truly global it is necessary to register new antifouling substances with a large number of regulators. The lengthiest processes are expected for the EU area and for the USA where Environmental Products Agency (EPA) is regulating the use of biocides.
The company has therefore elected to work up its registration documentation to meet the regulatory requirements in these areas first.