The use of block copolymers to inhibit bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on hydrophobic surfaces in marine habitats

Inhibition of adhesion of marine bacterial cultures to polystyrene surfaces treated with tri‐block copolymers of polyethylene oxide and polypropylene oxide ('Synperonic’ PE series) ranged from 21 to 100% depending on the properties of the copolymer and of the test organism. After 4 h submergence in natural marine habitats, copolymer treatment resulted in 70–100% reduction in colonisation. After 5d, the inhibitory activity was maintained in terms of colonisation by bacterial aggregates and eukaryotes, but single bacteria were present in equivalent numbers on both treated and untreated surfaces. After 2 months, no difference in biofouling between treated and untreated substrata could be detected. Reasons for the lack of a persistent inhibitory effect of the copolymer are considered.

Key words:

• Biofilms
• adhesion inhibition
• block copolymers
• hydrophobic surfaces