Additives for Efficient Biodegradable Antifouling Paints

Abstract

The evolution of regulations concerning biocidal products aims to increase protection of the environment (e.g., EU Regulation No 528/2012) and requires the development of new non-toxic anti-fouling (AF) systems. The development of these formulations implies the use of ingredients (polymers, active substances, additives) that are devoid of toxicity towards marine environments. In this context, the use of erodable antifouling paints based on biodegradable polymer and authorized biocides responds to this problem. However, the efficiency of paints could be improved by the use of specific additives. For this purpose, three additives acting as surface modifiers were studied (Tween 80, Span 85 and PEG-silane). Their effects on parameters involved in antifouling efficiency as hydrophobicity, hydration and copper release were studied. Results showed that the addition of 3% of additives modulated hydrophobicity and hydration without an increase of copper release and significantly reduced microfouling development. Efficient paints based on biodegradable polymer and with no organic biocide could be obtained by mixing copper thiocyanate and additives.

Prevention of biofouling on aquaculture nets with eco‐friendly antifouling paint formulation

“…The use of copper in antifouling is well regulated and copper‐based APs are widely available in the market. However, the concentration of copper compounds in sediments in oceans has been increasing, which can result in hazardous damage to marine animals . AP researchers have to find a compromise between the efficiency of coatings and their impact on the environment.…”

“…Therefore, there is a great need for development of eco‐friendly antifouling biocides. In the literature, several studies have evaluated novel compounds as antifouling agents . However, only a few biocides have been authorised for use in the European Union or the USA.…”

Water-Erodible Xanthan-Acrylate-Polyurethane Antifouling Coating

“…The burst release (at the very early stage of immersed coating) and uncontrolled release of biocides also increase the toxicity of biocides. Thus, it is important to use a coating, which can control biocide leaching [1,2,3,4,5].…”

Polymeric Systems as Antimicrobial or Antifouling Agents

“…Finally, three studies of this special issue were focused on development of antifouling systems following different approaches [35,36,37]. Francolini and colleagues [35] functionalized segmented polyurethanes, one of the most important class of biomedical polymers, with polyethylene glycol (PEG), known to possess strong antifouling properties.…”

“…Interestingly, enzyme immobilization significantly weakened E. coli biofilm formation affecting thickness, roughness, and surface area coverage but not bacterial viability, thus reducing the risk of drug resistance development. Finally, Faÿ and coworkers [37] developed antifouling paints by the use of three additives (Tween 80, Span 85, and PEG-silane) as surface modifiers.…”