Customers may observe the application and forming of white foam on the Devonport and Torpoint slipways over the next few days. This an environmental and herbicide-free trial to control algae growth in these areas.
The process uses the heat in hot water, insulated by a biodegradable foam blanket. The foam stops the heat escaping to the atmosphere, keeping the heat on the treated surface for a sustained period, ensuring a more effective kill than other alternative methods of commercial treatment.
The foam is environmentally-friendly and will naturally disperse within 10-20 minutes after application.
Increased algae growth is anticipated over the next few months and can become a hazard to customers and staff. The effectiveness of this treatment will be assessed over the coming months to determine whether this new method will be adopted in the future.