Efficacy of amorphous TiO_x-coated surfaces against micro- and macrofouling through laboratory microcosms and field studies

Abstract

In this study, Soda Lime Glass (SLG) and Stainless Steel (SS316L) substrata coated with Titanium oxide (TiOx) were tested for their efficacy in the laboratory microcosms and in field against micro- and macrofouling. Laboratory microcosm studies were conducted for five days using natural biofilms, single-species diatom (Navicula sp.), and bacterial biofilms, whereas field observations were conducted for 30 days. The TiOx-coating induced change in the mean contact angle of the substratum and rendered SS316L more hydrophilic and SLG hydrophobic, which influenced the Navicula sp. biofilm, and bacterial community structure of the biofilm. Overall, the TiOx-coated SS316L showed minimal microfouling, whereas non-coated SLG exhibited greater efficacy in deterring/preventing macrofouling organisms. Moreover, the reduction in macrofouling could be attributed to high abundance of Actinobacteria. Unraveling the mechanism of action needs future studies emphasizing biochemical processes and pathways.

Keywords:

• Biofilm
• macrofouling
• TiOx
• barnacle
• bacteria
• anti-fouling

Acknowledgments

The authors are thankful to the Director of CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography for the support. This is a NIO Contribution No. 7141.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

Data will be made available on request.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by GAP 3401 and OLP 2003.