Modern antifouling compositions ‐ Part IV: Controlled release, less hazardous, low cost highly efficient antifouling compositions

Abstract

Two sets of formulations based on three copolymer and three terpolymer systems involving tributyltin methacrylate(BTMA),methyl methacrylate(MMA) and acrylonitrile (AN) with variable tin contents of 7, 15 and 22% were prepared. There is only one varient in each formulation of the six prepared, that is the type of organotin polymer whether it is a copolymer or terpolymer of a definite tin content 7 or 15 or 22%. The binder mixture is a blend consisting of the organotin polymer, a vinyl copolymer and its external plasticizer and little amount of rosin. A moderate and fixed amount of cuprous oxide was introduced into all formulations as a supplementary toxin with organotin polymer. Leaching rates of micro amounts of copper and tin were determined. Panel exposure test in the sea was performed at Port Said. Best antifouling efficiency was obtained from formultions containing organotin copolymer or terpolymer of 22% tin content and that containing organotin copolymer of 15% tin.