Revolutionizing Ship Maintenance: A Breakthrough in Slime Accumulation Estimation

Researchers from the Swedish KTH Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) have developed a groundbreaking model to predict the speed and extent of slime accumulation on ship hulls. This innovation aims to assist ship operators in scheduling hull cleaning at optimal times, ultimately leading to significant fuel savings.

According to Cornelius Wittig, a PhD student at KTH specializing in fluid mechanics, the study sheds light on how shear stress interacts with biofilms over time, resulting in slime fouling on surfaces such as vessel hulls. Biofilm accumulation poses a substantial drag on fuel efficiency for ocean-bound cargo ships, leading to increased emissions and operational costs.

A recent study by the Global Industry Alliance for Maine Biosafety revealed that removing slime from ships’ hulls could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 25%. Recognizing the impact of biofouling on vessel efficiency, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) has emphasized the importance of biofouling management in achieving sustainability goals.

The Science Behind Slime Fouling

The fouling process begins with bacteria attaching to a surface, forming base structures that give rise to string-shaped streamers. These structures and streamers create surface imperfections that increase friction between the hull and water, leading to higher fuel consumption.

Wittig highlighted that slime fouling can increase a ship’s shaft power by up to 18% and result in an 80% rise in fuel consumption for vessels covered with a thin biofilm. Timing is crucial in reaping the benefits of hull cleaning, as accurate predictions can optimize cleaning schedules and reduce operational costs.

Industry Response and Innovations

In response to the biofouling challenge, maritime industry stakeholders have been exploring innovative solutions. Companies like Jotun and Hapag-Lloyd have implemented environmentally friendly practices to reduce emissions and enhance energy efficiency.

In a recent development, Lloyd’s Register awarded the industry’s first enhanced antifouling type approval to Graphite Innovation & Technologies (GIT Coatings), signaling a step towards sustainable ship maintenance practices. Hapag-Lloyd’s adoption of Shipshave’s ITCH solution also resulted in significant fuel savings and emission reductions, demonstrating the potential of innovative hull cleaning technologies.

As the maritime industry continues to prioritize sustainability and efficiency, advancements in biofouling management are poised to revolutionize ship maintenance practices and contribute to a greener future for the shipping sector.