Advanced Protection Against Marine Biofouling Using Solar Light

Abstract

We undertook prolonged testing of a new xerogel coating (AquaSun) to protect from marine biofouling a surface probe immersed in the seawater of Abu Dhabi. Electron microscopy, Raman mapping, and photoluminescence experiments coupled to extensive analyses of marine water before and after 122 days of testing showed excellent action against biofouling when irradiating the probe with visible light. Considering the high chemical and mechanical stability and the low cost of the sol-gel coating, the technology has significant potential en route to replacing conventional antifouling and foul release coatings with a single product of broad applicability.