Control strategies include coating all surfaces with an antifoulant such as copper-based epoxy paint or hot-dip galvanizing. Periodic inspection and replacement of grates and screens also reduces the risk. Increasing the size of the sea chests by 20% to 30% may delay the onset of serious problems that could force an engine shutdown. Thermal treatment is a highly effective strategy for the control of zebra mussels (McMahon et al. 1995). Thermal treatment may include retrofitting a closed loop system to recirculate the heated water to the sea chest or the addition of a second sea chest system, allowing engine cooling water to be discharged through the idle sea chest. Recirculation of engine cooling water as a thermal control strategy has proved extremely effective in controlling zebra mussels (Palermo 1992, U.S. Coast Guard 1994).
