For the spatial and temporal observations of surface pCO₂ in the ocean, we have been developing a compact drifting buoy system equipped with pCO₂ sensor. In general, when the buoy system is utilized for a long-term in situ observation, the instruments are susceptible to biofouling in the form of microbial and algal films. The biofouling affects the operation, maintenance and data quality of the deployed instruments. Tributyltin was the most effective biocide used in modern antifouling paints, but affected adversely the marine environment. To ascertain whether biocide free, silicon-based antifouling paint can be used for the oceanic platforms and instruments, the antifouling tests of silicon-based paints were carried out with other types of paints. After 500 days, one of silicon-based paints showed the lowest fouling coverage (25%) on the painting surface among the antifouling paints tested, indicating the high effectiveness as regards the prevention of marine biofouling. Hence, the silicon-based antifouling paint was used as biofouling prevention for our drifting buoy system.

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To construct and enhance the basic technologies that are important for marine research, we at the Marine Technology Center have been doing research and development on marine-related advanced technologies, as well as operating and managing seven vessels, manned submersibles, unmanned probes, various other observation devices, high-pressure water tanks, and other research facilities, while actively improving their performance and developing new devices. At the same time, we have been supporting research and fostering engineers in the related fields. We have outlined below our activities during the last five years until 2008.

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