Nontoxic, Self-Cleaning Silicone Fouling Release Coatings.

摘要

Biofouling on ship hulls presents a significant challenge for the U. S. Navy. Fouling on the hulls of marine vessels has been shown to reduce maximum speed and increase propulsive fuel consumption1. Historically, marine antifouling paints have utilized compounds toxic to marine organisms, such as triorganotin, as a means of combating the fouling problem2. In recent years, the environmental impact of these coatings has come under scrutiny3,4. The application of triorganotin-based paints has been prohibited on smaller vessels (< 25 m) and the U.S. Navy has discontinued its use.