Biocides – a necessary tool for managing biofouling
The prevention of biofouling is a hot topic in shipping generally and for regulators in particular. Biocidal antifouling coatings containing active substances that control the growth of unwanted organisms can and do make a huge contribution to combatting the global issue, but the biocides themselves are under scrutiny even though the industry still consider biocides as a key contributor to sustainable shipping.
Publication Date: 10/14/2025
Copper in antifouling: scientific evidence against the myth of toxicity
A scientific article reviews the history, chemistry, regulation and sustainability of copper in antifouling coatings. The research analyzes its functioning, its role in aquaculture and questions common perceptions about toxicity.
Publication date : 03/09/2025
Study finds that antifouling can boost decarbonization efforts
A new study, conducted by an independent marine coatings consultancy and published by I-Tech, reveals the widespread issue of barnacle biofouling on the global shipping fleet, with serious implications for decarbonisation efforts, thus highlighting the importance of antifouling.
An experimental investigation into the effect of Cu2O particle size on antifouling roughness and hydrodynamic characteristics by using a turbulent flow channel
An experimental investigation into the effect of Cu2O particle size on antifouling roughness and hydrodynamic characteristics by using a turbulent flow channel.
New American Chemet Building in East Helena, MT
An East Helena building project slated to be completed this summer will put American Chemet on track to streamline its processes and increase capacity. The company started building one large structure over the top of several existing wood structures in August 2017.
East Helena elementary students begin game aimed at suicide prevention
Elementary students in East Helena will be part of an early education game to prevent suicide by reducing behavioral problems and mental health issues. Blue Cross Blue Shield and American Chemet provided almost $17,000 in grant funding to train Kindergarten through third grade teachers on the PAXIS Institute Good Behavior Game last month.
Antifouling Copper Approval Ensures Savings, Performance
Jotun believes the European Union’s decision to approve the use of copper in marine antifoulings will ensure continued delivery of powerful benefits for both the shipping industry and environment. Copper is a key ingredient of most antifouling coatings, valued for its ability to provide the best overall balance of environmental protection and cost savings.
Marine Coatings: Making Sense of Copper-Based Antifouling Regulations
“Biofouling control has tremendous environmental benefits that range from energy savings to slowing the spread of invasive species. Over regulating copper-based antifouling coatings—the most proven and utilized [marine] coatings in the world, which have been universally approved by numerous countries worldwide based on the results of exhaustive human health and environmental studies—is questionable.
Copper in Antifouling
This article gives an updated overview of the use of copper in antifouling paints. In the first part, the worldwide regulatory status is summarized, for both commercial vessels and pleasure craft, based on the results from the detailed scrutiny of copper that has been undertaken by regula- tors in recent years in countries such as the United States, Australia, New Zealand and the EU.
Paging Dr. Copper
Copper is used in everything from automobiles to air conditioners, but it has one property that makes it especially attractive for medical uses: It kills bacteria.
Copper in Aquaculture
Discussion on Copper in the Aquaculture Environment, Total versus Bioavailable.