Developing Antifouling Surfaces by Preventing Adhesion
- Summary
- Researchers at Purdue University have developed a more environmentally conscious approach to antifouling that relies on reduction of marine organisms' ability to adhere to surfaces. Application of this agent is highly effective, with a 30 percent to 60 percent reduction in adhesion strength of marine organisms. Reduced adherence facilitates removal, resulting in less maintenance and increased efficiency without the environmental impact associated with heavy metals.
- Technology Benefits
- Reduces adhesion strength of marine organisms by 30 percent to 60 percentEnvironmentally-safe solution would replace heavy-metal-based antifouling agents Potential uses extending beyond marine vessels
- Technology Application
- MaterialsManufacturingGreen TechnologyChemical Analysis
- Detailed Technology Description
- Jonathan WilkerWilker Research GroupPurdue ChemistryJonathan WilkerPurdue Materials Engineering
- Countries
- United States
- Application No.
- None
- *Abstract
-
- *Background
- Marine organisms such as barnacles, algae, and mussels continuously foul ship hulls and other surfaces subject to seawater. Drag caused by fouling reduces top speed and increases fuel usage. Current antifouling agents rely on the release of heavy metals into surrounding water. Heavy metals act as general biocides, killing anything in their proximity. Although effective, these antifouling agents are a source of environmental concern and destroy local ecosystems.
- *IP Issue Date
- None
- *IP Type
- Other Patent
- *Stage of Development
- Process Validation in Lab
- *Web Links
- Purdue Office of Technology CommercializationPurdueInnovation and EntrepreneurshipJonathan WilkerWilker Research GroupPurdue ChemistryJonathan WilkerPurdue Materials Engineering
- Country/Region
- USA
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