TBT: An Environmental Dilemma

Abstract

Tributyl tin (TBT) compounds are being added to paints which are used to paint ship hulls. They are the most effective antifouling agents ever devised. Their application can save vessel operators hundreds of millions of dollars annually because they inhibit the growth of algae and marine animals that adhere to vessel bottoms and subsequently increase drag and decrease a ship's speed, increase the floating weight of a vessel, contribute to corrosion and interfere with proper flow of waters through conduits and valves. The tradeoff involves the fact that TBTs are so toxic that they can cause the loss of indigenous organisms, including commercially grown oysters, from marinas, harbors, and adjacent waters. The questions addressed by this paper are, whether or not the economic savings in fossil fuel and maintenance are offset by the loss of the marine life in the harbors and if the environmental levels of TBT are rising, should regulatory restraints be placed on their use. 10 references, 1 table.