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Antibiofouling for Ocean Instruments and Floats Using Microchlorine Generation

Completed TRL 6 (started at 3, targeting 6)

Description

Long term ocean measurements are severely impacted by algae growth. In this proposed work algae will be inhibited by localized, intermitent microgeneration of chlorine from seawater at sub-PPM levels. This technology will minimize operational labor requirements by eliminating ship time now required for cleaning of these sensors, as well as preventing the release of caustic chlorine to the environment. The calibration of deployed, submerged conductivity/temperature sensors will be extended from the present period of 1 month to 6 months or greater. After phase II an antibiofouling generic design will be available for general ocean instrument use.

Benefits

NOAA PORTS Program. NOAA OOI program. Replacement for antibiofouling ship's bottom paint.

Argos float salinity sensors at the ocean surface for satellite salinity calibration.

Details

Technology areaRobotic Systems > Mobility > Surface Mobility
ProgramSmall Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer (SBIR/STTR)
Lead organizationSeaLite Engineering, Cataumet, MA
Start date2011-02-18
End date2011-08-18

Project contacts

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How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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