The Future Trends of Sustainable Antibiofouling Research and the Development of a Naturally Derived Synergistic Antibiofouling Solution

Abstract

Biofouling, the accumulation of organisms on submerged surfaces, presents a significant challenge to maritime industries, including navies, shipping/transport, aquaculture, and fisheries. The resulting drag on ship hulls increases fuel consumption and carbon emissions, contributing to climate change. Historically, various antibiofouling solutions have been developed, with many relying on toxic compounds such as copper and tributyltin (TBT). These substances, while effective, have raised environmental concerns, creating an urgent need for novel solutions that are both effective and environmentally benign. This study aimed to develop a sustainable, non-toxic, and cost-effective antibiofouling solution using three naturally derived chemicals: chitosan, capsaicin, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Three solutions were produced with varying concentrations of chitosan (50:1, 100:1, and 200:1) while maintaining constant levels of capsaicin and PDMS. The antibiofouling properties of these solutions were evaluated using a bacterial assay and a proteinaceous analogue test, comparing their efficacy against a control and among each other. The results indicated that these novel combinations were not effective antibiofouling agents. This outcome underscores the complexity of developing solutions that are both efficient and environmentally friendly, highlighting the need for further research into alternative substances and strategies.