Objective
During the SERDP WP18-1659 project, the project team designed and built a cleaning tool test device (CTTD) that mimicked the operation of relevant cleaning tools on relevant underwater hull coating systems. During the ESTCP WP18-5194 project, the project team verified that the CTTD functioned in the way it was designed (high degree of control of brush standoff, operation/revolutions per minute (RPM), and translation rate). However, during the method evaluation phase, uncertainty in the data prevented finalization of the method and thus transition. The final report for that work provides the details of the findings. The primary objectives of this follow-on effort/project are: Phase 1 to collect necessary data to address uncertainties associated with the test method; and Phase 2 to finalize and execute a demonstration of the method in order to develop a data set that verifies the results and enables transition.
Technology Description
The first part of this project will utilize the same panels (which have remained immersed at Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific in San Diego Harbor), cleaning tools/brushes, and the purpose-built CTTD from WP18-5194. The second part of the work will also utilize the CTTD, but the work will be executed on a slightly expanded set of antifouling coating systems and a reduced set of cleaning brushes.
Benefits
This project will inform the utility of and underpin the transition of the CTTD tool and associated method. This tool/method will enable screening of both coating response to cleaning (thickness, damage; using relevant tools) and associated inputs to the environment (Cu and Zn; particles) under partially controlled conditions. Data collected in the CTTD can provide direct support for Department of Defense (DoD) underwater hull coating qualification processes and the Uniform National Discharge Standards program. As environmental drivers tied to air quality, water quality, and ecological impacts evolve and regulations shift, the CTTD can be used to screen emerging coatings, evaluate alternative cleaning tools or cleaning strategies both separately and in combination. This capability reduces risk associated with coating transition allowing DoD to identify and disqualify coatings which likely would not perform for the required service life on a ship or would increase the environmental inputs associated with in-water cleaning. (Anticipated Project Completion - 2028)