Aquatic Friction Reducer And Antifouling Paint Enhancer

Abstract

The present invention pertains to a novel hydrophilic or “water-loving” bottom finish for boats and watercraft composed and based on a non-ablative long-chain polymer, which is semi-permeable, but non-soluble in water. The invention also permits a slower, controlled release of the bioactive ingredients in anti-fouling marine paints. The invention further reduces fluid-flow friction and improves the drag verses speed ratio.

1 . A process to compose a novel hydrophilic bottom finish for boats and watercraft based on a non-ablative long chain polymer. 
   
   
       2 . The process of  claim 1 , wherein the resultant bottom finish can be applied by brush, roller or airless spray apparatus. 
   
   
       3 . The process of  claim 1 , wherein the resultant bottom finish can be applied over the bare hull of boats and watercraft. 
   
   
       4 . The process of  claim 1 , wherein the resultant bottom finish can be employed in various applications in addition to watercraft; i.e., surf boards, snow skies, snow mobiles, aircraft, etc. 
   
   
       5 . The process of  claim 1 , wherein the resultant bottom finish is semi-permeable, but not soluble in water. 
   
   
       6 . The process of  claim 5 , wherein the resultant bottom finish alters the physical nature of the boundary layer between the boat hull and water. 
   
   
       7 . The process of  claim 6 , wherein the resultant bottom finish absorbs a controlled amount of water, up to 40%. 
   
   
       8 . The process of  claim 7 , wherein the resultant bottom finish creates a fluid-to-fluid surface in water. 
   
   
       9 . The process of  claim 8 , wherein the resultant bottom finish is hard and tough when dry then softens with the absorption of water upon launching. 
   
   
       10 . A process to compose a novel hydrophilic bottom finish for boats and watercraft based on a non-ablative long chain polymer to be applied over anti-fouling paints on boats and watercraft. 
   
   
       11 . The process of  claim 10 , wherein the resultant bottom finish permits a slower, controlled release of the bioactive ingredients in anti-fouling paints. 
   
   
       12 . The process of  claim 11 , wherein the resultant bottom finish controls the leaching rate of the toxicant whereas barnacles and other such sea life virtually can not attach with up to 97% efficiency over a 25 month period. 
   
   
       13 . The process of  claim 12 , wherein the resultant bottom finish increases efficiency and service life of anti-fouling paints. 
   
   
       14 . The process of  claim 13 , wherein the resultant bottom finish increases water compatibility and prolongs hull cleanliness. 
   
   
       15 . The process of  claim 14 , wherein the resultant bottom finish decreases time intervals between costly haul-outs for cleaning. 
   
   
       16 . A process to compose a novel hydrophilic bottom finish for boats and watercraft based on a non-ablative long chain polymer to be applied on the hull of boats and watercraft that improves drag verses speed ratio in water. 
   
   
       17 . The process of  claim 16 , wherein the resultant bottom finish reduces fluid flow friction in water. 
   
   
       18 . The process of  claim 17 , wherein the resultant bottom finish exhibits impressive fuel savings.