A potential consequence of ballast water treatment - at least for those systems that make use of an active substance - is the potential for damage to be caused to the wider ballast system. Coatings suppliers have expressed concern about the effect of treated water on paint and the risk of corrosion of ballast water tanks. The conflict has arisen because the paint, as the last layer on, is traditionally considered accountable for the effect on the tank and the water it holds. Coating manufacturers argue that BWT systems appeared after coatings were developed, so the onus is on the system-makers to test their products against existing coatings. With no official regulatory decision, the dispute rumbles on, but it is something that owners selecting either a tank coating or a ballast water treatment system should consider before coming to a final decision.
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