- Slime on ship hulls increases fuel consumption and emissions.
- KTH researchers developed a model to optimize hull-cleaning schedules.
- Biofilms form from bacterial colonies, creating drag and friction.
- Timely cleaning reduces fuel waste and operational costs.
- Findings apply to shipping, medicine, and industrial systems.
Slime fouling on the hulls of ocean-going cargo ships is a major factor in reduced fuel efficiency, contributing to increased emissions and higher consumer prices. Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have introduced a new model to estimate the growth and impact of biofilms, offering ship operators a tool to optimize hull-cleaning schedules. Published in NPJ Biofilms and Microbiomes, this study provides valuable insights into managing this persistent issue.
Understanding Biofilm Growth
Biofilm formation starts with bacterial micro-colonies attaching to a surface. These colonies develop base structures and string-like streamers that create surface irregularities, increasing friction between the hull and water. The rate of biofilm growth is influenced by the shear stress caused by water flow. This added friction can drastically impact fuel efficiency, with even thin biofilms increasing fuel consumption by up to 80 percent, according to KTH researcher Cornelius Wittig.
The Importance of Timely Hull Cleaning
Currently, many ship operators delay hull cleaning until fuel consumption spikes, resulting in wasted fuel and higher costs. The new model developed by KTH researchers addresses this issue by predicting optimal cleaning intervals, ensuring that the benefits of cleaning outweigh the associated expenses. Accurate predictions could help operators schedule cleanings effectively, saving both fuel and money.
Broader Implications and Future Directions
Although promising, the model requires further research under realistic conditions before its widespread adoption. However, the ability to estimate shear stress based on ship speed provides a practical starting point for improving decision-making.
The study’s implications extend beyond shipping. Biofilm growth also causes fouling in industrial piping and medical devices like stents and catheters, where streamers can lead to rapid clogging. By enhancing our understanding of biofilm dynamics, this research offers solutions for biofilm management across diverse fields, promoting efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
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Source: KTH
