Modeling of spherical silver nanoparticles in silicone-based nanocomposites for marine antifouling

Abstract

Since the use of organotin antifouling paints was prohibited in 2003, researchers have endeavored to develop novel environment-friendly marine antifouling coatings. We report in successful fabrication model of silicone foul-release (FR) coatings with elastomeric polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/spherical silver (Ag) nanocomposites. This modeling design shows evidence to integrate two inhibition modes of (1) chemical inertness and (2) physical repelling force of microfouling. The antifouling nanocomposite models were successfully synthesized via the solution casting technique. In this approach, a series of filler concentrations of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) with particle size << 10 nm and spherical morphology facet dominantly controlled on the {111} lattice plane was used to controlled antifouling models. Surface hydrophobicity, roughness, and free energy properties of the nanocomposites were systematically studied as fouling non-stick factors. Physicomechanical properties were also assessed. Selected bacterial strains were used as microfoulants for laboratory assay investigation for 30 days. Our finding provides important insights into how subtle structural changes in polymer nanocomposites can considerably improve biological activity and simplify surface cleaning. Hydrophobicity, surface inertness, fouling resistance, and surface easy-cleaning properties significantly improved in the nanocomposite design models fabricated with nanofiller loadings of up to 0.1% spherical Ag NPs without changes in the bulk mechanical properties. The fabricated models were subjected to a rigorous test in a field trial in the Red Sea waters. Results show the potential of our models based Ag nanofillers up to 0.1% to approve ecologically friendly antifouling coatings as an alternative to traditional systems. The Ag/PDMS composite models have a long-term durability and antifouling performance, which are important factors in developing effective, stable, and eco-friendly nanocomposites.

Superhydrophobic Self-cleaning Surfaces in Nature

“…Superhydrophobic surfaces have great importance for applications in various fields, especially for clean and sustainable chemistry. Superhydrophobic surfaces were extensively applied as self-cleaning and FR coatings [50][51][52] . Superhydrophobic nanocomposites with high WCA > 150˚, low CAH <5˚, micro-nano roughness, and reduced SFE are promising surfaces for eco-friendly antifouling applications [53] .…”

Superhydrophobic Silicone/TiO2–SiO2 Nanorod‐like Composites for Marine Fouling Release Coatings

“…The increases in global embargo and restrictions associated with the application of biocidal AF technologies have motivated the development of environmental‐friendly alternatives, especially using natural marine compounds and fouling‐release (FR) technology . Natural AF compounds face regulatory hurdles with the estimated cost of assembling data packages on efficacy and environmental fate amounting to millions of dollars as well as with the timeline for the approval process …”

Silicone/Ag@SiO2core–shell nanocomposite as a self-cleaning antifouling coating material

“…20 The polar properties of edged Ag spheres with densely packed {111} lattice plane, which exhibits the lowest surface energy per unit area and stability over other Ag nanostructures (cubic, wire, and triangular), which contain few {111} planes can afford a coating material with a high antifouling properties. 15,20 Also, the hydrophobicity of a coated lm is enhanced by insertion of Ag NPs.…”

“…13,14 Several studies have highlighted the anti-fungal, antiviral and antifouling activities of Ag NPs. 15,16 As a noble metal, Ag NPs have been widely used as an effective antimicrobial agent against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Nano-Ag is less expensive and presents excellent antibacterial property compared with nanogold.…”

“…15 Silica shell can cause excellent dispersion and surface morphology stabilization of Ag NPs. Coatings' surface topology was tested by AFM test (Fig.…”