Coral-inspired fabrication of Ag-Cu2O-zwitterionic polymers-phosphor films with day and night antifouling properties

Abstract

Inspired by the antifouling process observed in fluorescent corals, this study introduces a novel functional antifouling film consisting of Ag-Cu2O nanocomposites, zwitterionic polymers, and a phosphor substrate. Zwitterionic polymers serve as a dispersive medium for Ag-Cu2O nanocomposites, enabling a uniform coating and optimal structural through spin-coating. During daylight hours, visible light irradiation excites Ag-Cu2O nanocomposites to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cooperates with the hydration layer, exhibit a high-level antifouling effect. Notably, the unique structural coating can emit a weak coral-like fluorescence at night, sustaining ROS release and further enhancing antifouling performance. The assembly structure of the composite film was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and water contact angle (WCA), while its antifouling performance was evaluated through antibacterial tests and a 30-day light-dark cycle anti-algae attachment experiment. The distinct nighttime antifouling capability contributes to 97.30 % anti-algae settled rate over a 30-day diurnal cycle. Moreover, we also investigated the effect of phosphor color on the composite film's antifouling properties. The blue phosphor group exhibited greater antifouling performance than the green or transparent phosphor group. The composite film created with multiple synergistic mechanisms exhibited auspicious antifouling performance. Further improvement and development of this composite film could unlock even greater potential for its antifouling properties.