Hydrated Zwitterglass Coatings for Rugged, Passive Antifouling in Marine Environments
Abstract
Biofouling of ships and structures in the marine environment is a serious concern for all shipping as well as infrastructure immersed in seawater. Many organisms contribute to a complex matrix of fouling agents, each with specialized mechanisms for attachment to surfaces. While they are effective, toxic metal or organic agents currently deployed in coatings are under increasing scrutiny for their potential negative environmental impacts. This proposal seeks to exploit a new class of coatings which have demonstrated passive antifouling properties. The coatings are made from complexed oppositely charged polymers, or polyelectrolytes, which are present in equal concentration, producing a net neutral but well hydrated surface similar to the zwitterion-type coatings which have demonstrated much promise in this particular application. The new coatings are glassy and rugged, which is an intrinsic property of the material. These #zwitterglasses# may be applied in large areas using water-based solutions without volatile organics. Zwitterglass coatings will be prepared from various charged polymers and their efficiency in reducing biofouling will be assessed using local and national federally-supported testing facilities. Building on many years of experience in the assembly of films and bulk polyelectrolytes, the research will also focus on fundamental understanding of the mechanism of zwitterglass antifouling performance. A successful outcome will advance DoD objectives of decreasing fuel and maintenance costs while lessening the environmental impact of technologies it uses to remain at the forefront of readiness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 12, 2023
- Source ID
- N000142312125
Entities
People
- Joseph Schlenoff
Organizations
- Florida State University
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy