In March 2006 a survey of antifouling biocides was carried out in sediments, water and, where possible, mussels in Perth coastal waters.
The purpose was to undertake a preliminary scoping study of chemicals that have not usually been included in such investigations, and link these to vessel activity or related industries.
Eight sites, including commercial harbours, recreational boat harbours, ship-building facilities, sailing clubs and boatlifts/slipways, were chosen to represent a broad range of intensive vessel activities. Sampling locations were selected where contamination would most likely be found.
The paint manufacturers Hempel Pty Ltd and International Paints assisted with information regarding the chemicals likely to be found in Perth coastal waters. As a consequence, the following chemicals were selected for analysis: tributyltin, copper, zinc, diuron, Irgarol 1051, dithiocarbamates, chlorothalonil and dichlofluanid.
