Towards an ecologically and economically sound biofouling control of Mytilopsis leucophaeata in the harbour of Antwerp

Any surface exposed to untreated water provides an opportunity for the settlement and subsequent growth of filter feeders. The cooling water conduits of a power station are an ideal habitat for such species, because they pomp untreated water from nearby seas, rivers and lakes. Settlement occurs readily and growth can be rapid until it begins to interfere with the operational systems and finally leads to their failure. This phenomenon is known as biofouling. Because of the great economical damage, caused by fouling organisms, biocides are being used to control them. Until now, the most effectiv... Mehr ...