Coatings based on side-chain ether-linked poly(ethylene glycol) and fluorocarbon polymers for the control of marine biofouling

The preparation of side group modified polystyrene-based surface-active block copolymers (SABC) for use as marine fouling resistance/release applications is described. Modifying moieties such as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and semifluorinated segments were used. A novel bilayer methodology has been employed that provides both suitable mechanical properties through the use of an elastomeric primer layer of styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS) and control of surface-chemistry through use of the SABCs. This approach has potential as a cost-effective technology for environmentally benign coatings that resist and release marine biofouling. Initial testing of these materials included determination of captive bubble contact angles and protein adsorption. Testing against marine fouling organisms was performed using settlement and adhesion bioassays with zoospores of the green alga Enteromorpha. The results showed that all surfaces had markedly reduced levels of zoospore settlement compared with glass controls and that adhesion strength was strongly affected by the semifluorinated SABC. The results are discussed in terms of surface properties.