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Abstract
This article reports on the preparation and partial characterisation of silicone-based coatings filled with low levels of either synthetic multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) or natural sepiolite (NS). The antifouling and fouling-release properties of these coatings were explored through laboratory assays involving representative soft-fouling (Ulva) and hard-fouling (Balanus) organisms. The bulk mechanical properties of the coatings appeared unchanged by the addition of low amounts of filler, in contrast to the surface properties, which were modified on exposure to water. The release of Ulva sporelings (young plants) was improved by the addition of low amounts of both NS and MWCNTs. The most profound effect recorded was the significant reduction of adhesion strength of adult barnacles growing on a silicone elastomer containing a small amount (0.05%) of MWCNTs. All the data indicate that independent of the bulk properties, the surface properties affect settlement, and more particularly, the fouling-release behaviour, of the filled materials.
Acknowledgements
The work was funded by the EC Framework 6 Integrated Project ‘AMBIO’ (Advanced Nanostructured Surfaces for the Control of Biofouling). This article reflects only the authors' views and the European Commission is not liable for any use that may be made of information contained therein. The authors also thank Nanocyl SA (Sambreville, Belgium) for kindly supplying the carbon nanotubes. SMPC is grateful to the Région Wallonne and the European Union (FEDER, FSE) for financial support through the Phasing-Out of Objectif-1 Hainaut: Materia Nova. SMPC thanks the “Belgian Federal Government Office Policy of Science (SSTC)” for general support in the frame of the PAI-6/27. Ms Christine Beveridge is thanked for technical assistance with the algal assays.