Scientists at a Dublin university have developed a new antifouling technique inspired by a common flatfish in Europe’s waters.

As Silicon Republic reports, the team of researchers at Dublin City University (DCU) created a material that mimics the scales of brill, which have tiny spacings that interrupt the development of biofilm from micro-organisms that cause microfouling.

It’s this slimy film that forms the basis for larger macrofouling by barnacles, mussels and other growths on a boat’s hull.

“Our work has discovered that these brill-inspired micro textures cause a disruption to the formation of a biofilm leading to surfaces that are easier to clean or have a slower rate of biofilm formation,” said team lead Prof Fiona Regan from DCU’s Water Institute.

Silicon Republic has more on the story HERE.

Get into the swings of things this spring, and prepare for when restrictions allow, with big discounts on International antifouls with CH Marine.

But you’ll have to hurry as they’re only available for a limited time and while stocks last.

Internatonal’s Micron 350 Antifoul 2.5L for performance sailing was €150.95, now €120.95.

For high speed craft, there’s the Ultra 300 — normally €148.95 for 2.5L, it’s now only €114.95.

And for general sailing and cruising proposes, the Cruiser 250 was €120.95, now only €95.95 for 2.5L.

Check out these discounts and more savings in the full range of antifouls from International and other top brands at CHMarine.com

If you’re refreshing your boat for the summer sailing and cruising season, look no further than Viking Marine and their new range of paints, varnish and antifoul treatments.

AkzoNobel’s International Cruise 250 is a polishing antifouling gloss paint providing quality year-long protection. Quick-drying and convenient, it can also help you get back on the water sooner.

Suitable for both powerboats and sailboats whether in sea water, fresh water or brackish water, Cruiser 250 has a practical coverage of nine square metres per litre. Available in five colours in 3L (€117.50) and 750ml (€49.95) sizes.

For more rigorous needs, such as fast streamlined yachts, International’s Ultra 300 provides a year’s protection even in the harshest fouling conditions. Available in seven colours in 2.5L (€159) and 750ml (€62.50) sizes.

Micron 350, meanwhile, is a premium antifouling with outstanding two-year protection in all conditions. A new formula for 2018 ensures truer colours, while self-polishing copolymer technology delivers consistent performance.

Quick-drying, easy to apply and extremely durable, this ablative antifouling is available in six colours in 2.5L (€154.95) and 750ml (€59.95) sizes.

Be sure to check out Viking Marine’s full range of antifoam, deck paint, primers, finishers, accessories and more.