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| Zebra mussels are found in freshwater of Lake Mendota |
We have been in war for years with mussels. Unlike rusting, mussels are biological creature which play significant roles in marine ecosystem. Therefore, in defeating mussels, we cannot destroy it by terminating the mussels. But, mussels are one of the biggest problem for human in term of marine activities. For instance, mussels grow and attach to the boats and even the hulls of the boat which can give disadvantages. More importantly, what can we do about this?
The most common mussels that can be found in the boat are zebra and quagga mussels. They are commonly found in either saltwater and fresh water which can become threat for aquatic activities particularly in transportation. Many problems have been caused by these two mussels so the preventive action must be taken in order to stop them. But, their growing in the natural habitats are important since they are “food” for several living things, and on the other hand, they can cause problem to human.
The main problem caused by mussels is their way in growing by attaching the boats, pillar of docks so they can cause the mechanical strength. In addition to prevent their growth, many scientists have been trying to engineer the coating method of the boat or the dock itself. However, again, the anti-mussels coating must be able to reduce the environmental damage. So, what are supposed to do?
Fortunately, recent breakthrough can answer this issue. Instead of poisoning the mussels, scientists from Harvard University which is currently becoming professor at Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen, Nurnberg, Germany was able to create anti slippery coating method. Nicolas Vogel created anti-fouling material which is categorized as slippery liquid-infused porous surface (SLIPS). Interestingly, the anti-fouling was able to be fabricated because of challenge made by professor from Nanyang Technological Institute.