Polycraft in the fight against marine growth

by Bob Wonders on 9 Dec 2008 Working closely with a leading European-based chemical engineering firm, Polycraft will be introducing to its range a unique anti-fouling agent which inhibits marine growth and reduces the need for constant bottom painting.

Bundaberg-based Polycraft, manufacturer of the popular range of moulded polyethylene dinghies, runabouts and cuddy cabin boats, is to introduce an exciting innovation which will greatly benefit those who leave their craft in the water for long periods.

Polycraft director Grainger McFarlane said the company had been evaluating the product for more than 12 months.

'It has proven to be a highly effective and rapidly biodegradable product that inhibits all forms of bacterial slime and general marine growth,' he explained.

'Importantly, it has won world-wide acceptance for its environmental care and has been honoured with the first ever award for the design of safe chemicals granted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

'We are not promising that the need for bottom painting will be eliminated, but it will certainly be reduced thanks to this technology,' he added.

Of course, bottom painting is only required by those with boats left on moorings and at marinas, consequently Polycraft is only offering the technology as an option, recognising that trailer boats simply don’t require it.

This innovative product is normally added to anti-fouling paint prior to its application, but in the case of Polycraft is it added to the raw material from which its range of boats is moulded.

'We’re particularly excited to be introducing this technology and believe it positions Polycraft as an innovative manufacturer conscious of the need to care for our environment and our waterways,' McFarlane said.

At this stage, the additive will be only available on all Polycraft models ordered in white or safety yellow.

'Being brand-new technology, the raw material is only available in limited quantity,' McFarlane explained.

'White is by far the most chosen colour in our range, while the high visibility of yellow also has strong appeal.

'Eventually it may be available across the range, but that’s a wait and see situation at present,' he added.

For information, contact Darren Morgan, Polycraft, Bundaberg, telephone (07) 4131-3452 or e-mail darrenmorgan@polyindustries.com