Dr Yigit Demirel

Project Title: Time-Based Biofouling Model for Ships

The aim of this project was to develop a model to predict the time-dependent biofouling accumulation on antifouling coatings applied to ship hulls and its effect on fuel consumption. Initially a numerical time-based biofouling model was developed by utilising the relevant coating data, ships’ operational data and hydrodynamics data.

This model was then validated using real data measured by on-board systems of a tanker. Percentage increase in frictional resistance of the 176 m long tanker was predicted to be ~32% in one year. Dr Yigit Kemal Demirel, PI, published a paper entitled ‘Time-dependent biofouling growth model for predicting the effects of biofouling on ship resistance and powering’ (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.oceaneng.2019.106432). This paper demonstrates the findings of the study in detail.