Researchers have created an antifouling coating designed to protect marine life while reducing the ecological footprint of ships. This advancement is reported in Marine Pollution Bulletin and represents a step toward healthier ocean ecosystems by changing how hulls interact with the surrounding sea life from the very moment they contact water. The new formulation emphasizes an approach that minimizes harmful outputs without compromising vessel performance, aligning with ongoing efforts to safeguard coastal and open-water habitats across North America.
Traditional antifouling paints that rely on copper have long been a concern because copper can leach into seawater as ships ride through currents and waves. In the Baltic Sea, estimates indicate a notable fraction of copper found in the marine environment may originate from the linings of commercial and cruise vessels. This region’s inland geography further influences pollutant dynamics, sometimes concentrating contaminants within a relatively closed marine system rather than allowing free exchange with the broader ocean. The broader ecological implications of copper release include potential harm to aquatic organisms and disruptions to early biofilm formation on hull surfaces. The contemporary understanding emphasizes the importance of reducing metal inputs while maintaining effective hull protection, especially in semi-enclosed seas and environmentally sensitive zones.
Swedish researchers from Chalmers University of Technology addressed these challenges by developing a silicone-based coating with a smooth, low-friction surface. This design reduces the initial attachment of marine organisms and slows biofilm establishment, creating a self-cleaning effect as vessels move through water. The coating’s physical properties help prevent the buildup of contaminants and promote easier shedding of residual substances, contributing to lower long-term accumulation on hulls. This approach underscores a shift away from copper-dependent systems toward materials that interact less with the marine environment, which can translate into tangible reductions in pollutant release during routine operations.
In a head-to-head assessment, the silicone-based coating was compared with traditional copper-based paints to gauge antifouling effectiveness under typical sea conditions. The study found the silicone formulation to deliver superior antifouling performance while potentially reducing the environmental release of toxic copper. Beyond the immediate antifouling benefit, the findings suggest a meaningful decrease in ecological risks for maritime activities and a corresponding improvement in hull efficiency and reliability over time. The results highlight how newer materials can meet operational needs without elevating environmental costs, especially in regions where water quality and biodiversity are of heightened concern.