Modification strategy of siloxane antifouling coating: adhesion strength, static antifouling, and self-healing properties

Abstract

Siloxane coatings, characterized by their low surface energy and low elastic modulus, exhibit promising fouling-release properties. However, siloxane antifouling coatings still have certain limitations, which include low adhesion strength, poor antifouling performance, and weak mechanical properties. This review summarizes the modification methods of siloxane coatings, and focuses on three modification strategies: improving coating adhesion, static antifouling performance, and self-healing capabilities. This review provides insight into the preparation methods, enhancement mechanism and key critical issues of the three strategies. Additionally, potential research methods and materials that can further augment siloxane coating performance in the future were evaluated. Computational techniques such as molecular dynamics can aid researchers in understanding structural modification strategies at the molecular level. Photocatalytic antifouling agents are more suitable for future scientific and environmentally friendly design concepts. It is hope that this contribution provides valuable insights for researchers seeking a better understanding of advancements in siloxane antifouling coatings research and aids in developing novel solutions to address marine fouling issues.