OHIO Class External Hull Antifouling

The US Navy, and other maritime operators, has a problem with fouling on hull surfaces. Coatings that may be effective when submarines are out at sea are not as effective when the boat is maintained in a static state for long periods of time. The skilled manpower needed, the radiological considerations, and the methods and tools used currently to address fouling in static situations collectively are not cost effective. Boston Engineering proposes to leverage our extensive experience with maritime systems and biological prevention knowledge to provide a modular solution to address the specific needs of the OHIO Class submarine. The solution is versatile and applicable in many antifouling defense and commercial maritime environments. Our solution minimizes manpower needed by combining benefits of autonomous and semi-autonomous system operation and tuned non-contact energy that specifically targets biological forms responsible for fouling. Phase I focused on proving the feasibility of control biofouling growth on submerged surfaces. Phase II Base will establish an automated testing fixture deployable in many different locations, specifically where biofouling is a concern for US ships. Specifically, we seek to optimize application effectiveness while demonstrating modularity and flexibility. Modular aspects of the solution provide transition capability for other antifouling opportunities.