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History
For more than 500 years, man used toxic copper metals to deter fouling organisms. But, copper’s long reign ended with the introduction of the highly effective tributyltin (TBT) class of toxic chemicals in the early 1960’s. Over the next 40 years, evidence proved that TBT was the marine equivalent of DDT (Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane), known to be the first modern pesticide.
Both nano-science and nano-technology became available in the 1910’s with the development of the first tools to measure and make nanostructures. Prior to this discovery, nano-structures were being investigated when the findings of electrons and neutrons explained that actual matter can live on a smaller scale than what was thought possible at one time. Examples of smaller scale structures that scientists began to study include:
- The atomic force of the microscope, and
- Lithography, a printing process which comes from the science of nanotechnology.
While pre-2000 history was determined solely by technological developments (e.g., copper sheathing, TBT …), the post-2000 world is being increasingly determined by regulations.
As a follow up to a global ban on any new product of TBT coatings after January 1, 2003, (discussed in the regulatory section of this web site) a complete ban of all TBT coatings will go in affect by no later than 2008. With their principal active ingredient outlawed, manufacturers have been forced to reintroduce the copper-based toxic coatings that were used by the 17th century British Royal Navy. Being less lethal than TBT, the toxicity level of these metal-based coatings is commonly enhanced with added pesticides and/or herbicides.
With the announcements to ban TBT coating products, market uncertainty was created unto manufacturers and all interested parties. The forecast for their uncertainty can be summarized as follows:
- Less effective products,
- Less predictable future, and
- Additional complicated products.
Nano Surfaces Inc. (NSI) is determined to rewrite this playbook by developing coating products that significantly improve antifouling properties, and product performances, that are environmentally friendly and cost less to produce than current coatings. NSI is expected to reduce the turn around time for innovation by working with strategic partners to develop the finest solutions for specific customer requests and unique market needs. The company develops complete capability from application development through pilot quantities, to commercial production.