About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
MS&T24: Materials Science & Technology
|
| Symposium
|
Advanced Materials for Harsh Environments
|
| Presentation Title |
Combating Biofouling: Field Testing of a Lubricant-Infused Antifouling Coating in Marine Environments |
| Author(s) |
Curtis J. Larimer, Shane Addleman, George Bonheyo, Thomas Lefevre, Wilaiwan Chouyyok, Joseph Daddona |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Curtis J. Larimer |
| Abstract Scope |
Marine and aquatic environments are harshly challenging for manmade materials due to the combination of corrosive saltwater and the disruptive mix of living organisms known as biofouling. This presentation will review the development and field testing of a cheap, environmentally friendly antifouling coating that is designed to prevent attachment of fouling organisms such as algae, barnacles, and mussels. The Superhydrophobic Lubricant-Infused Composite (SLIC™) coating has a carefully controlled texture and chemistry to absorb and retain a lubricant on the surface that behaves like the slime that forms over fish scales. The lubricated surface inhibits the attachment of organic and biological matter and makes it easier to clean off when it does attach. Results from field testing of SLIC™ on both hard surfaces like concrete and steel and flexible surfaces like netting and mooring lines at a commercial shellfish operator and federal hydropower dams will be described. |