Anti-fouling Behaviors of Polyethersulfone – Coated Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composite

In the realm of anti-fouling applications, coatings are essential in preventing the accumulation of fouling organisms, acting as a barrier against unwanted particles, contaminants, and microorganisms.However, traditional coating materials face limitations in resisting fouling growth, often accompanied by various drawbacks.This study delves into the effectiveness of different coating materials on glass fiber in marine environments.Specifically, it compares polyethersulfone (PES) coatings with Kossan paint coatings in terms of their anti-fouling properties.The primary aim is to assess the performance of these coatings over time (0, 14, 28, 60, 90, and 120 days) in marine settings.The degree of bio-fouling attachment on the samples was evaluated through visual observation and image J analysis.Results showed that glass fibers coated with Kossan paint exhibited a lower percentage of bio-fouling attachment compared to those with PES coatings.However, despite its efficacy in reducing bio-fouling, Kossan paint tends to detach from the glass fiber surface, necessitating repainting every four months, leading to higher maintenance costs.In contrast, PES coatings demonstrated superior adherence to the glass fiber surface, suggesting their potential as effective anti-fouling coatings.Nonetheless, modifications in properties such as surface roughness, hydrophobicity, and wettability are needed for PES coatings to efficiently prevent biofouling growth.This study highlights the need for balancing fouling resistance and durability in coating materials for sustainable marine applications.