Siloxane-polyglycerol block copolymers and their use in marine antifouling coatings (RFT-722)

liposome illustration

Background

Marine biofouling—the accumulation of microorganisms, algae, and barnacles on submerged surfaces—poses a significant challenge for marine industries. Fouling can increase fuel consumption, degrade materials, and reduce vessel efficiency. Traditional antifouling coatings often rely on toxic biocides, raising environmental concerns. Non-toxic fouling-release (FR) coatings, particularly those based on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), offer a promising alternative by reducing organism adhesion and enhancing removal through hydrodynamic forces. However, improving the performance of these coatings remains a key research focus.

Technology Overview

This technology introduces amphiphilic PDMS-based hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) polymers to enhance the fouling-release properties of silicone-based coatings. By integrating hyperbranched polyglycerol into PDMS formulations, the coatings achieve a tunable balance of hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties, influencing their interaction with fouling organisms.

Laboratory assays evaluated the coatings' ability to prevent and release various biofouling agents, including marine bacteria (Cellulophaga lytica), microalgae (Navicula incerta), green algae (Ulva linza), and barnacles (Amphibalanus amphitrite). Water-jet testing at different pressures assessed the ease of biofouling removal. Results showed that coatings containing HPG-modified PDMS significantly reduced bacterial biofilm adhesion and enhanced the detachment of algae and barnacles compared to unmodified PDMS coatings.

Surface characterization techniques such as FTIR, AFM, XPS, and moisture sorption analysis revealed that HPG incorporation influences surface energy, hydration, and elasticity—key factors affecting antifouling performance. Additionally, toxicity tests confirmed that the formulations were non-toxic to marine organisms, making them environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional antifouling coatings.
This technology offers a scalable and sustainable approach to improving fouling-release coatings, with potential applications in the marine, aquaculture, and water treatment industries. By fine-tuning the amphiphilic balance, researchers and manufacturers can optimize coatings for different operational environments, reducing maintenance costs and environmental impact.

Benefits

  • Enhanced Fouling-Release – Improved detachment of bacteria, algae, and barnacles from coated surfaces.
  • Environmentally Friendly – Non-toxic alternative to biocidal antifouling coatings.
  • Surface Tunability – Hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance can be optimized for different conditions.
  • Improved Material Durability – Reduces degradation and extends the lifespan of marine coatings.
  • Lower Maintenance Costs – Reduces the need for frequent cleaning and repainting.

Applications

  • Marine Coatings – Ship hulls, offshore platforms, and underwater structures.
  • Aquaculture Equipment – Netting, tanks, and enclosures to prevent biofouling.
  • Water Treatment Facilities – Pipes, filters, and submerged components.
  • Biomedical Devices – Preventing bacterial adhesion on medical implants.

Patents

This technology has a U.S. Patent Pending and is available for licensing/partnering opportunities.

Contact

NDSU Research Foundation
info(at)ndsurf(dot)org
 (701)231-8173

NDSURF Tech Key

RFT, 722, RFT722

Inquire about this technology >