Environmentally Friendly Marine Antifouling Coating Based on a Synergistic Strategy

Abstract

The development of environmentally friendly and long-term marine antifouling coating remains a huge challenge in the maritime industry. For this purpose, we developed a novel and efficient antifouling coating based on a synergistic strategy, incorporating contact inhibition, fouling repelling, and antifouling properties. Results demonstrated that the coating could efficiently resist the adhesion of protein, bacteria, and Navicula diatoms. More importantly, marine field tests showed the coating could efficiently inhibit biofouling for at least 8 months. This approach paves a new way for the development of environmentally friendly and long-term antifouling coating.