Influence of Biodegradable Polymer Properties on Antifouling Paints Activity

Abstract

Abstract:The development of new antifouling paints requires understanding the parameters involved in antifouling activity and to develop new analytical tools for their evaluation. A series of biodegradable poly(ε-caprolactone-co-δ-valerolactone) copolymers varying by molecular weight and composition were synthesized, characterized and formulated as antifouling paints. The physico-chemical properties such as hydration, degradation, erosion and lixiviation of paints were studied. Microfouling (bacteria and microalgae) was observed by microscopic observations in a short delay, whereas macrofouling colonization was observed by visual inspection during one year. The antifouling activity of paints was modified by varying the composition and molecular weight of copolymer. The crystallinity appears to play a major role in antifouling activity, however the involvement of other properties such as hydration, degradation or erosion remains difficult to understand. Confocal laser scanning and scanning electron microscopes were used for the evaluation of antifouling paints. Results show that microalgae seem to be a pertinent indicator of antifouling activity.

Anti-Biofilm Effect of Biodegradable Coatings Based on Hemibastadin Derivative in Marine Environment

“…Only a few studies have focused on the use of CLSM to study biofilm development on antifouling paints [ 20 , 48 , 49 ]. CLSM make it possible to represent the 3D-architecture of the sample and to extract quantitative structural parameters such as the biofilm biovolume and thickness.…”

“…Nevertheless, it is possible to compare the inhibition rate of microfouling. In Loriot et al [ 20 ], antifouling paints based on P(CL-VL) and commercial CDP was studied and compared to standard without biocide. The rate of inhibition was 95% on average for diatom biomass and maximum thickness after six weeks.…”

“…P(CL-VL) composed of 80% caproic acid and 20% pentanoic acid is a good candidate to obtain CDP taking into account industrial constraints (film-forming properties, biodegradability, life-time, stability, biocide release, etc.) [ 19 , 20 ]. DBHB as compound and varnish has been evaluated by laboratory and field assays.…”

Additives for Efficient Biodegradable Antifouling Paints

“…In the case of paint with Tween 80 as additive, a decrease of biomass and average thickness was observed after 7 weeks. This result can be explained by a mechanical erosion of paint surface, as already observed in the case of erodible paints [9,24].…”

Fouling Release Coatings Based on Polydimethylsiloxane with the Incorporation of Phenylmethylsilicone Oil

“…For a long time, painting antifouling coatings on seawater-impregnated substrates has been an effective way to inhibit the attachment of marine organisms. It has been widely applied, such as in shipping vessels, heat exchangers, offshore rigs, jetties, aquaculture cages, and other submerged structures in the marine environment [6,7]. Meanwhile, one statistical analysis indicated that the practice saves the global shipping industry an estimated 150 billion US dollars per year [8].…”