The present invention relates to an ultra-sonic device, which can be utilised in an
aquatic environment to inhibit growth of waterborne
flora and
fauna. In particular, the present invention relates to a method of reducing such growth and the removal from the underside of yachts, boats and the like. In general, the present invention relates to anti-
fouling systems as are known to prevent
biological growth such as
algae, seaweed and crustacea on marine vessels or
underwater structures.
Coating materials have been developed preventing
corrosion due to oxidation of the surface of the structure. Although such materials have effects of retarding growth of the
corrosion, however, they contain
zinc, lead,
copper, etc, raising a problem of environmental
pollution due to
dissolution of these metals into
seawater. In addition, none of these
coating materials can prevent clinging of marine organisms, and if they cling to the structure, oxidation is accelerated by
oxygen sent out from the marine organisms, causing further growth of the
corrosion of the structure. The formation of encrustations of barnacles, tunicates, and like
fouling organisms, will increase the vessel's weight, thereby decreasing the available storage space, slow a vessel underway, increase its fuel consumption, and make it difficult to
handle, thus reducing the vessel's performance and efficiency. The present invention addresses this need wherein the
transducer is operable on a cyclic basis.