In industrial practice, many alternatives exist for the mitigation of MIC, ranging from mechanical
cleaning, to sterilization and chemical disinfection by toxic agents or disinfectants, (e.g. biocides,
bactericides or oxidizing biocides). WG4 will work very closely with WG3 to identify new mitigation
strategies based on early detection. For industrial facilities, the mechanical cleaning, sterilization and agent’s dosage can be optimized via adequate monitoring integrated in the process control. For metallic components used in construction and marine applications, antifouling coatings, mostly acting through biocide-release strategies, can provide protection against MIC. However, the stricter biocide usage regulations urge the development of novel and ecological solutions that are applicable to real field needs. 

Thus, WG4 will aim at the identification of environmentally friendly fouling inhibitors that can be
integrated into coatings with a smart release and/or contact-bioactive approach. A close  collaboration between academic and industrial partners in the design and upscaling of antifouling coatings will be established to develop new concepts that can tackle this challenge. The mitigation of MIC is a topic of great industrial and societal relevance. Therefore, the community and expertise brought together by the Euro-MIC will be the ideal platform to develop joint project applications in the upcoming Horizon Europe Framework Programme, especially under calls targeting industry leadership and advances up to TRL7.