An EU Project by Naval Energies and Ifremer

Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) is a technology capable of generating renewable energy in tropical regions using the difference in temperature between warm and cold seawater. Over time, the circuits in the machinery can become blocked with biological deposits from the ocean, which reduces performance. The aim of the SIMBIOSE project is to develop treatment solutions to overcome this "biofouling" in an environmentally-friendly way.

BIOFOULING TREATMENT SOLUTIONS

What we aim to study over the course of SIMBIOSE

Biofouling is the build-up of biological matter on surfaces submerged in seawater. To prevent this occurring in OTEC, we aim to optimise two known treatment solutions, electrochlorination and ozonation, to limit their environmental impact. A third, more innovative, solution will also be evaluated using biopolymers derived from marine bacteria. This method, still in its development phase,  could be combined with both ozonation and electrochlorination to increase efficiency.

Electrolysis of seawater produces sodium hypochlorite. In previous studies, this technique effectively reduced biofouling but needs further development to minimise unwanted by-products.

Infusing the seawater in the piping with ozone prevents biofouling. Previous work has already been successful in a laboratory setting. Hence, we will adapt this system for use at industrial scales.

“Protection of marine ecosystems is very close to my heart. We are playing our part by reducing the environmental impact of biofouling treatments.”

Françoise Dubois, 

Project Coordinator

OTHER APPLICATIONS

Aquaculture icon

Aquaculture

Deep seawater, which is rich in nutrients, provides a beneficial environment for fish farms.

Maritime icon

Maritime

Exchangers on large ships that are
regularly in contact with seawater.

Cooling tower

Industrial Cooling

In thermal power stations (nuclear
or oil & gas) cold sea water can be used
to cool vaporised working fluid.

Air conditioning icon

Air Conditioning

Cold seawater is used to cool a flow of air, which is then used to cool collective buildings such as hotels and hospitals.

Cosmetics icon

Cosmetics

Nutrient-rich water from the deep ocean is used as an additive in cosmetics products.

Desalination icon

Desalination

Seawater is used to produce steam that enables desalination, which is then condensed by a cold sea water circuit.

Our TEAM

Meet the collaborators from Naval Energies & Ifremer

OUR VALUES

01.

HEALTHY OCEANS

Develop technologies using seawater that is respectful of marine environments.

02.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Contribute to a long-term, natural solution to meet increasing energy demands.

03.

EFFICIENT TECH

Enhance industrial performance of a highly promising technology. 

04.

STRONG COLLECTIVE

Succeed as a community by unifying our individual abilities. 

FIND OUT MORE

A more in-depth look at SIMBIOSE

Get in touch

If you would like to find out more about SIMBIOSE, collaborate with us or just discuss our technology together, we would like to hear from you.

 

Françoise Dubois
biofouling@naval-energies.com
Indret site, 44620 La Montagne, France