Self‐Stratifying Porous Silicones with Enhanced Liquid Infusion and Protective Skin Layer for Biofouling Prevention
Abstract
Liquid‐infused silicones are a promising solution for common surface adhesion problems, such as ice accumulation and biofilm formation, yet they generally lack the tunability, mechanical durability and/or longevity essential for industrial applications. Self‐stratifying porous silicones (SPS) infused with compatible silicone oil are developed as a passive strategy to address these shortcomings. Through emulsion templating, porosity is formed in the bulk polymer, providing increased free volume for oil infusion, while a non‐porous skin layer is formed at the surface. The bulk porosity and pore size distribution of SPS are independently controlled by varying water and surfactant concentration respectively, leading to a higher volume of oil infusion and improved oil retention relative to an unmodified silicone. Despite a higher oil loading and bulk porosity, the skin layer provides liquid‐infused SPS with a comparable surface elasticity to liquid‐infused silicones. The potential of liquid‐infused SPS as a nontoxic fouling release coating for marine applications is demonstrated using laboratory assays against a variety of soft and hard fouling organisms.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- May 29, 2020
- Source ID
- 10.1002/admi.202000359
Entities
People
- Alex Vena
- Joanna Aizenberg
- Philseok Kim
- Shane Stafslien
- Stefan Kolle
Organizations
- Harvard University
- National Science Foundation
- North Dakota State University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Department of Defense