Blue-Antifouling: Innovating in Application to Keep Up With the Modernization of Naval Power

Abstract

Undoubtedly, Blue Biodiversity is recognized as an invaluable source of natural resources. In the marine context, bioprospecting can significantly influence society's perception of the oceans, representing an advance in Brazil's political-strategic position. To accompany the modernization of Naval Power and innovate the technique of applicability of antifouling products, Blue-antifouling, which is not a biocide, promotes prevention in the maintenance of maritime equipment. This contributes to operational stability and directs the country to advance research in the areas of Marine Science and Technology. The Blue Amazon Management System (SisGAAz), by monitoring macroalgae blooming areas, becomes an essential tool for boosting the country's bioeconomy. Seaweed, a natural source of alginate composed of alginic acid units and calcium ions, has the ability to gel. Alginate hydrogel, used in the synthesis of amphiphilic polymers synthesized through polymerization, induces self- association forming stable micelles and creates a hydrated layer in the living works of vessels. Cross-linking can be accomplished through physical mixing or the principles of ecologic chemistry, combining hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers. Blue-antifouling is a high-performance hydrogel that uses hydrodynamics to prevent biofouling.