Graphene-enhanced antifouling for marine environments
biosparc® aligns with global sustainability goals by eliminating the use of toxic chemicals in antifouling coatings, offering a greener alternative for the maritime industry. Leveraging the exceptional conductive properties of graphene, biosparc® significantly reduces biofouling on marine surfaces — without biocides and without residue on cultured species.
Proven in real world testing
Panels coated with biosparc® enhanced polymer and an untreated control polymer have been submerged and assessed in the Port River, in testing conducted at the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) in collaboration with Flinders University.
Across two rounds of testing the biosparc® enhanced polymer carried substantially less biofouling than the control. After 10 weeks in the most recent round, coverage was measured at under 6% against approximately 65% on the untreated control.
Lab and field testing is ongoing to further optimise conditions and polymer formulations.
Government-backed development
An AEA grant to bring biosparc® to aquaculture netting
Sparc Technologies, in partnership with Flinders University, has received funding through the Australian Government’s Economic Accelerator (AEA) program to develop advanced aquaculture netting.
The 12-month project focuses on applying the biosparc® system to fish pen nets. Prototype testing is underway with the support of an Australian aquaculture company to validate performance in real-world conditions.
Benefits to aquaculture
- ✓Reduced biofouling on nets
- ✓Increased net strength and durability
- ✓Extended operational lifespan of nets
- ✓Reduced mechanical cleaning
- ✓Improved fish health and biosecurity
- ✓Increased dissolved oxygen concentration
Applications
Where biosparc® is being applied
The biosparc® system is being developed for marine surfaces where biofouling drives cost, downtime and environmental impact.
Partner with us
We are seeking highly credentialled partners
Sparc is seeking highly credentialled partners from the aquaculture and marine industries to support testing and trials of the biosparc® system.
Sparc is at the forefront of graphene-enhanced polymer development, with more than six years of expertise in revolutionising industrial materials through the integration of graphene technology.
Memberships
