Cesp approves coatings to combat the golden-mussel
	2007/07/31 - Renner Herrmann S.A. Group

According to the company, no encrustation of the mollusk or algae was detected on the areas painted with the three coatings approved after two years of tests.

Cesp (SP) has approved three types of coatings to combat the encrustation of the golden-mussel on its structures, in Alto Paraná. According to the director of Geração Oeste, Silvio Roberto Areco Gomes, the objective of the studies and tests carried out by Renner Herrmann over two years was to develop coatings that could avoid the attachment of this mollusk to the equipments of the company, reducing economical and environmental impacts.

In 2004 the coatings were applied for tests in acrylic and metal structures, the latter with four different painting schemes. They were also used to cover the water fences of Generation Unit 2 of Engenheiro Sergio Motta hydroelectrical plant (Porto Primavera).

During the tests the trial structures and the fences were visually inspected by Cesp’s diving team. At the end of the testing period the fences of the Generation Unit were removed. According to the company, no encrustation of the golden-mussel or algae was detected on the areas painted with the three approved coatings.

Currently, the golden-mussel is found on the rivers Guaíba, Paraguai and Paraná and in the Pantanal region. It has great capacity of incrustation, rapid grow tax and remarkable reproductive force, causing the obstruction of water tubes, filters, industrial systems and hydroelectric plants; damages to engines and boats; alteration of the population’s traditional fishing routines and the alteration of the aquatic ecosystems.

For more information about protective coatings against the golden-mussel, visit the Renner Herrmann S.A. - Divisão Tintas Marítimas e Manutenção Industrial website.

Source: Agência Canal Energia – Danilo Oliveira.