The COMIC project aims to map the risk of damage by MIC (Microbiological Induced Corrosion) in the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal Zone and thus learn more about the causes of the occurrence of an outbreak of the bacteria involved. This should allow to further assess the risk of MIC-related problems. These data will allow those involved to subsequently carry out more targeted monitoring. In addition, the project shows in five test cases which technology can best be used to protect ships and company infrastructure from damage.
The target group includes both ship owners and operators of waterways, as well as companies located along these waterways (e.g. Norh Sea Port association with 550 member companies in various waters), with the Ghent-Terneuzen canal as the first focus.
In terms of target groups, this project focuses primarily on the industrial ecosystem around the Ghent-Terneuzen canal.
This includes not only the port and maritime companies, but also any company that uses a mooring quay or pumps cooling water from the canal. North Sea Port estimates the number of companies directly connected to the ports and canal at 550. Sports associations and tourist agencies with activities around the canal are also part of the target group.