What is a Zebra Mussel?
The waterways of North America are being invaded by
freshwater mussels that have been introduced from Europe across the Atlantic.
The invasion of the Zebra Mussel ( Dreissena polymorpha ) and of the lesser
known Quagga Mussel is estimated to have started approximate 12 years ago.
Each Zebra Mussel spawns 40,000 to 60,000 eggs a year that
float as microscopic plankton until they find a secure place to attach. They
grow rapidly and are able to choke off water supplies in anything from a half
inch pipe to a 20 ft. diameter tunnel. Densities of more than 100,000 per
square yard have been measured. 
Infestation began in the Great Lakes and has spread rapidly
throughout the Hudson, Missouri, Mississippi and other major river systems
contaminating smaller lakes and rivers in the process.
Estimates on the effect of the mussel invasion range from
$500 million to $5 billion per annum! The invasion is an ecological
disaster that is just starting.
Have They Caused Significant Damage Yet?
As early as 1989 the city of Monroe, Michigan lost its
total water supply for 72 hours due to Zebra Mussel infestation. Since then
major, losses of production and costs of clean-up and treatment have occurred
through every type of water user.
Is My Business At Risk?
If you are east of the Rockies and use fresh water for
drinking purposes, cooling, process or emergency fire services, you could be
affected, directly or indirectly.
When Must I Do Something?
It's much more cost effective to take preventative measures
than to cure a substantially infected system. Pro-act don't Re-act!
What Must I Do?
Seek professional assistance and advice. The design and
installation of a suitable system will in all likelihood include a foul-release
coating. We recommend you consider Wearlon Super F1-M or Wearlon PM4545.76
Foul-Release Coating System.
Wearlon Foul-Release Coatings
Foul-Release Properties:
The hydrophobic, low surface energy, non-stick properties
of Wearlon result in low biofouling adhesion. This is true for Zebra Mussels,
Quagga Mussels and all bacterial and algal biofilms. Of course the low adhesion
applies to other substrates too, like ice, tar grease and other potential
contaminates. Foul-release means easy clean.
Maintenance Friendly Properties:
Wearlon's hard abrasion resistant properties and its
excellent adhesion to a wide range of substrates makes it conducive to repeated
cleaning by robust water jet. The lubricity of Wearlon makes cleaning much
easier by dramatically reducing friction.
Low Environmental Impact System:
From the Low V.O.C. (volatile organic
compound) rating of Wearlon's water based chemistry to its non-toxic,
non-leaching working principle, Wearlon has minimal environmental impact. Wearlon
meets EPA, USDA and FDA 21 CFR 175.300 Requirements.
And Much More Too! ...
Wearlon's foul-release system is actually a full
maintenance coating system with all the properties you would expect from a
premium maintenance coating system.
- Corrosion resistance
- Outdoor weathering resistance
- Above and below water performance
- Wide temperature operating range
- Excellent thin film performance
Refer to the Products, Info, and More Info sections for
Wearlon products that can work for you.
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