Biofouling and Corrosion Studies at the Seacoast Test Facility in Hawaii

Results from the first three years of operation are presented. No detectable biofouling from cold water in smooth tubes has been observed. Intermittent, low-level chlorination appears to control biofouling from warm water in smooth tubes. Uniform corrosion of 5052 aluminum alloy is low, with less pitting found with warm water than with cold water over the same period. Although the testing of waterside enhancements has just begun, results to date indicate that low-level chlorination may be effective in preventing biofouling buildup on such enhancements. Corrosion data indicate that aluminum-based materials may achieve long service lives in marine environments.