ASTM To Issue Standard On Test Method For Antifouling Coatings
WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, PA - ASTM announced plans to issue a Standard Test Method for Copper Release Rates of Antifouling Coating Systems in Seawater, given the designation D 6442. The standard addresses the laboratory determination of the release rate of copper from antifouling coatings in synthetic seawater, and is being developed by ASTM Subcommittee D01.45 on Marine Coatings, a part of Committee D-1 on Paints and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications.
The standard is designed to regulate the amount of copper entering the marine environment, due to identification of copper in antifouling coatings as the source of a discharge that could have negative environmental effects. Elizabeth Haslbeck, chairman of the subcommittee developing the standard, noted that the International Maritime Organization is considering a worldwide ban on organo-tin coatings, which could lead to greater reliance on copper-containing coatings in marine applications. Haslbeck also said release-rate methods will be needed in the future for organic biocides that are being developed for antifouling coatings.