Chapter 9 - Polymer/graphene-derived nanocomposites as advanced marine antifouling coatings

Abstract

After the application of organo-tin antifouling coatings was prohibited in 2003 by the International Maritime Organization, research focused on nontoxic silicone fouling release (FR) nanocoatings as eco-friendly alternatives. They have great fouling antiadhesion and self-cleaning mechanisms. Novel and exciting designs for polymer–graphene nanocomposites provide efficient and eco-friendly FR surfaces. These nanosurfaces are hydrophobic materials with reduced surface free energy and a rough topology. Various graphene–inorganic nanofiller hybrids are dispersed in polymeric resins to resist fouling organisms. This chapter discusses the synthesis methods of graphene materials, interactions with polymers, and applications of the derived nanocomposites. The chapter introduces models for nontoxic maritime FR nanocomposite surfaces with long-term durability and combines the synergetic effects of dispersing different controlled graphene materials. The developed nanocoatings have many advantages, including simplicity, safety, being environmentally benign, economic feasibility, sustainability, and potential applications. The chapter concludes with a discussion of the field's current and future advancements. This chapter is planned to serve as a modern research portal for the creation of a future sustainable, long-lasting FR coating.