Method for removing marine fouling organisms from ship bottom

Abstract

A method for removing marine fouling organisms from a ship bottom by using a temperature regulation technique. In the method, the temperature of the bottom of a ship body is accurately controlled, so that the temperature is kept within a range that is unfavorable for the survival and attachment of fouling organisms such as barnacles, thereby achieving the aim of preventing and removing fouling organisms. The method comprises four steps in total, i.e., installing a temperature regulation apparatus, setting and maintaining a temperature range, performing continuous monitoring and adjustment, and performing high-temperature removal of attached organisms. Compared with the prior art, the method has the advantages of being capable of executing efficient anti-fouling, being economical and energy-saving, prolonging the service life of a ship, improving the navigation efficiency, and having environmental benefits.

Description

A method for removing marine organisms from the bottom of a ship Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of ship antifouling, in particular to a method for removing marine attached organisms from the bottom of a ship. Background Art

[0002] Marine biofouling organisms, such as barnacles, have long posed a serious threat to ship navigation. Once attached to the hull, these organisms not only increase resistance and reduce speed, but also exacerbate corrosion and wear on the hull, shortening the ship's service life. While traditional antifouling methods, such as antifouling paints and manual removal, can alleviate the problem to some extent, they are costly and have limited long-term effects. Therefore, the search for more efficient and cost-effective antifouling methods is crucial. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In response to the aforementioned problems in the background art, the present invention proposes a method for removing marine biofouling from the bottom of a ship using temperature regulation technology. This method precisely controls the temperature of the bottom of the hull, keeping it within a range that is unfavorable for the survival and attachment of biofouling organisms such as barnacles, thereby preventing and removing biofouling organisms.

[0004] The technical solution provided by the present invention is a method for removing marine organisms attached to the bottom of a ship, comprising the following steps:

[0005] Step 1: Install a temperature control device at a suitable location on the bottom of the hull. This device may include, but is not limited to, a system that utilizes waste heat generated by the ship's power for heat exchange, a conductive coating, a graphene electric heating film, or other high-efficiency heating elements. The selection of these devices should be optimized based on the specific conditions and needs of the ship.

[0006] Step 2: Set and maintain a temperature range. Use a temperature control device to adjust the temperature of the bottom of the hull to a preset range. This temperature range should be higher than the temperature threshold required for normal attachment of organisms such as barnacles to prevent their attachment and survival. At the same time, it must be ensured that this temperature range does not damage the hull materials or affect the normal operation of the ship.

[0007] Step 3: Continuous monitoring and adjustment. Install temperature sensors and monitoring systems to continuously monitor the temperature of the bottom of the hull. According to the monitoring results, adjust the working status of the temperature control device in a timely manner to ensure that the temperature of the bottom of the hull always remains within the preset range. In addition, the performance and status of the temperature control device must be checked regularly to ensure its stable and reliable operation.

[0008] Step 4: Use high temperature to remove attached organisms. For organisms such as barnacles that have already attached to the bottom of the hull, the temperature of the bottom of the hull can be raised to a higher level by increasing the output power of the temperature regulating device. Under the action of high temperature, the attached organisms will lose their ability to adhere and their physiological activity ability, and then naturally fall off or be removed. After removal, the temperature needs to be readjusted to the preset range to continuously maintain the anti-fouling effect.

[0009] The advantages of the present invention compared with the prior art are:

[0010] 1) Highly efficient antifouling: This invention effectively prevents the attachment and survival of organisms such as barnacles by precisely controlling the temperature at the bottom of the hull, significantly improving the ship's antifouling capabilities.

[0011] 2) Economical and energy-saving: Utilizing waste heat from the ship's power or high-efficiency heating elements for temperature regulation reduces energy consumption and operating costs. It also reduces issues such as increased fuel consumption and increased hull maintenance costs caused by biofouling.

[0012] 3) Extending the service life of ships: By reducing the corrosion and wear of barnacles and other attached organisms on the hull, the application of this invention can significantly extend the service life of ships and reduce the costs incurred by frequent repairs and replacement of parts;

[0013] 4) Improved navigation efficiency: After removing the attached organisms on the bottom of the hull, the ship's navigation resistance is reduced, fuel consumption is reduced, and the navigation speed is increased. For the shipping industry, this means higher transportation efficiency and lower operating costs;

[0014] 5) Environmental Advantages: Compared to traditional antifouling coatings and manual removal methods, the temperature regulation technology employed in this invention is more environmentally friendly. It avoids the use and discharge of harmful chemicals, reducing pollution and damage to the marine ecosystem. Furthermore, by reducing fuel consumption and lowering carbon emissions during ship operation, it contributes to addressing global climate change.

[0015] Furthermore, the temperature control device includes a graphene heating film. This film is laid on the bottom of the hull and generates heat through electricity, raising the temperature of the bottom of the hull. The graphene heating film has excellent electrical conductivity and heating efficiency, enabling rapid response to temperature changes and precise temperature control.

[0016] Furthermore, the graphene electric heating film further includes a coating surface, a reinforcement layer and a coating layer. The reinforcement layer is located between the coating surface and the coating layer and is used to enhance the mechanical strength and durability of the electric heating film. Graphene nanoparticles are evenly distributed in the coating layer, and these particles are interconnected through a conductive network to form an efficient heating layer. When powered on, the graphene nanoparticles quickly generate heat and transfer the heat to the bottom of the hull, achieving rapid heating.

[0017] Furthermore, the method also includes additional measures to enhance the antifouling effect, namely, coating a layer of antifouling paint on the bottom of the hull, which has excellent anti-adhesion properties and can further enhance the antifouling effect of the bottom of the hull; the antifouling paint is used in combination with a temperature regulating device to form a dual protection mechanism, effectively preventing the attachment and survival of attached organisms such as barnacles.

[0018] Furthermore, step three also includes regular monitoring of the temperature and attached organisms on the bottom of the hull. By regularly checking and recording relevant data, the working status of the temperature control device and the anti-fouling effect can be understood in a timely manner. Based on the monitoring results, the operating parameters of the temperature control device and the maintenance plan of the anti-fouling coating can be adjusted in a timely manner to ensure that the bottom of the hull is always kept in the best anti-fouling state. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Example 1

[0020] The present invention, when implemented, includes the following steps:

[0021] 1) Install a temperature control device

[0022] First, for a cargo ship, based on the vessel's specific conditions and needs, a graphene heating film was selected as the primary temperature control device. This film has excellent electrical conductivity and heating efficiency, making it suitable for temperature regulation on the bottom of the hull.

[0023] 1.1) Preparation: Select an installation location on the hull bottom, ensuring that it evenly covers and effectively heats the entire bottom area. Also, prepare the graphene heating film, installation tools, insulation materials, and necessary electrical connection equipment.

[0024] 1.2) Laying the Heating Film: Cut the graphene heating film to the desired size and lay it at the selected location on the hull bottom. The heating film should be laid flat and wrinkle-free, ensuring a close fit with the hull surface. A layer of insulating material should be placed between the heating film and the hull to prevent direct heat transfer to the hull structure, which could cause unnecessary heat loss or damage.

[0025] 1.3) Electrical connection: Connect the power cable of the electric heating film to the power system on board, ensuring that the electrical connection is firm and reliable. At the same time, install appropriate electrical protection devices, such as overload protectors and leakage protectors, to improve the safety and stability of the system.

[0026] 2) Set and maintain temperature range

[0027] 2.1) Temperature Setting: Based on the normal temperature threshold for barnacles and other organisms to attach (e.g., below 15°C), the pre-set temperature range for the hull bottom is set between 20°C and 30°C. This temperature range effectively prevents the attachment and survival of organisms such as barnacles while not damaging the hull materials or affecting the normal operation of the vessel.

[0028] 2.2) Temperature Control: The temperature of the hull bottom is regulated within a preset range through the temperature control system. Based on the data fed back by the temperature sensor, the control system automatically adjusts the heating power of the electrothermal film to ensure that the temperature remains within the preset range.

[0029] 3) Continuous monitoring and adjustment

[0030] 3.1) Install monitoring equipment: Install temperature sensors and monitoring systems on the bottom of the hull to continuously monitor the temperature. Also, set up alarms to sound an alarm in case the temperature exceeds the preset range.

[0031] 3.2) Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain the temperature control device, including checking the working condition of the electric heating film, the reliability of the electrical connection, and the integrity of the insulation material. At the same time, adjust the operating parameters of the temperature control device in a timely manner based on the monitoring results and actual conditions to ensure its stable and reliable operation.

[0032] 4) High temperature to remove attached organisms

[0033] 4.1) Raising the Temperature: For organisms like barnacles already attached to the hull bottom, the output power of the temperature control device is increased to a higher temperature (e.g., between 40°C and 50°C). Under the influence of high temperatures, the attached organisms will lose their ability to stick and their physiological activity, and will naturally fall off or be removed.

[0034] 4.2) Removal and Reset: After the attached organisms are removed, the temperature is readjusted to the preset range to maintain the antifouling effect. At the same time, the residue on the bottom of the hull is cleaned to ensure the hull surface is clean and smooth.

[0035] 5) Additional measures

[0036] To further enhance the antifouling effect, a layer of antifouling paint is applied to the bottom of the hull. This paint has excellent anti-adhesion properties, further preventing the attachment and survival of organisms such as barnacles. The antifouling paint, combined with the temperature control device, creates a dual protection mechanism, effectively improving the antifouling capabilities of the hull bottom.

[0037] Example 2

[0038] Based on the first embodiment, this embodiment provides a case of practical application:

[0039] A large cargo ship was plagued by barnacles and other organisms that attached to it while sailing at sea. To address this issue, the ship installed a graphene heating film on the bottom of its hull as a temperature control device. The film was laid in key areas of the hull and used waste heat from the ship's power system for auxiliary heating. During navigation, the film automatically adjusted the temperature according to a pre-set program, keeping the bottom of the hull at a constant temperature above 20°C.

[0040] After a period of operation, the number of barnacles and other organisms attached to the bottom of the freighter's hull has significantly decreased. Regular monitoring results show that the temperature of the hull bottom remains within the preset range, and the electric heating film operates stably and reliably. At the same time, the freighter's fuel consumption and navigation resistance have also decreased, improving navigation efficiency and economic benefits.

[0041] To further enhance the anti-fouling effect, the cargo ship is also coated with an environmentally friendly anti-fouling paint on the bottom of the hull. This paint works in conjunction with the electric heating film to form a dual protection mechanism, effectively preventing the attachment and survival of organisms such as barnacles.

[0042] The basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention are shown and described above. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The above embodiments and descriptions are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention. Various changes and improvements may be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Such changes and improvements are intended to fall within the scope of the present invention. The scope of protection claimed in the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for removing marine organisms from the bottom of a ship, characterized in that The following steps are involved: Step 1: Install a temperature control device at a suitable location on the bottom of the hull. This device may include, but is not limited to, a system that utilizes waste heat generated by the ship's power for heat exchange, a conductive coating, a graphene electric heating film, or other high-efficiency heating elements. The selection of these devices should be optimized based on the specific conditions and needs of the ship. Step 2: Set and maintain a temperature range. Use a temperature control device to adjust the temperature of the bottom of the hull to a preset range. This temperature range should be higher than the temperature threshold required for normal attachment of organisms such as barnacles to prevent their attachment and survival. At the same time, it must be ensured that this temperature range does not damage the hull materials or affect the normal operation of the ship. Step 3: Continuous monitoring and adjustment: Install temperature sensors and monitoring systems to continuously monitor the temperature of the bottom of the hull; Based on the monitoring results, timely adjust the working status of the temperature control device to ensure that the temperature of the bottom of the hull is always maintained within the preset range; in addition, the performance and status of the temperature control device must be regularly checked to ensure its stable and reliable operation; Step 4: Use high temperature to remove attached organisms. For organisms such as barnacles that have already attached to the bottom of the hull, the temperature of the bottom of the hull can be raised to a higher level by increasing the output power of the temperature regulating device. Under the action of high temperature, the attached organisms will lose their ability to adhere and their physiological activity ability, and then naturally fall off or be removed. After removal, the temperature needs to be readjusted to the preset range to continuously maintain the anti-fouling effect.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The temperature control device includes a graphene heating film. This film is laid on the bottom of the hull and generates heat through electricity, raising the temperature of the bottom of the hull. The graphene heating film has excellent electrical conductivity and heating efficiency, and can quickly respond to temperature changes, achieving precise temperature control.

3. The method for removing marine organisms from the bottom of a ship according to claim 1, characterized in that: The graphene electric heating film further includes a coating surface, a reinforcement layer and a coating layer. The reinforcement layer is located between the coating surface and the coating layer and is used to enhance the mechanical strength and durability of the electric heating film. Graphene nanoparticles are evenly distributed in the coating layer. These particles are interconnected through a conductive network to form an efficient heating layer. When powered on, the graphene nanoparticles quickly generate heat and transfer the heat to the bottom of the hull, achieving rapid heating.

4. The method for removing marine organisms from the bottom of a ship according to claim 1, characterized in that: The method also includes an additional measure to enhance the antifouling effect, namely, coating the bottom of the hull with a layer of antifouling paint, which has excellent anti-adhesion properties and can further enhance the antifouling effect of the bottom of the hull; the antifouling paint is used in combination with a temperature control device to form a dual protection mechanism, effectively preventing the attachment and survival of adherent organisms such as barnacles.

5. The method for removing marine organisms from the bottom of a ship according to claim 1, characterized in that: The third step also includes regularly monitoring the temperature of the bottom of the hull and the presence of attached organisms. By regularly checking and recording relevant data, the working status of the temperature control device and the antifouling effect can be timely understood. Based on the monitoring results, the operating parameters of the temperature control device and the maintenance plan of the antifouling coating can be adjusted in a timely manner to ensure that the bottom of the hull is always kept in the best antifouling state.