Performance Assessment of Novel and Commercial Marine Antifouling Paints through a Multiparametric Experimental Investigation Protocol

Abstract Marine biofouling refers to the attachment and growth of marine biological organisms on immersed surfaces, such as ships and platforms. Biofouling can severely affect the hydrodynamic and corrosion performance of marine structures and impose serious environmental and safety risks. For this reason, application of efficient and environmentally friendly marine antifouling (AF) paints is essential. In the present work, novel AF marine paints of silicone and polyurethane formulations, based on an immobilized biocide technology, were examined under different exposure conditions and with regard to various mechanical and physical properties to ensure all-around reliability, safety and efficiency. Commercial counterparts were used for benchmarking. The experimental protocol included examination of AF performance via sea immersion experiments, hydrodynamic performance via towing-tank tests and anticorrosion performance on intact specimens via accelerated salt spray and UV tests and long-term immersion in laboratory conditions. The physical and mechanical properties of the paints were measured both as a standalone characterization and as part of post-mortem evaluation. The experimental silicone system exhibited the best AF behavior and the most stable corrosion performance, possibly due to its elastomeric nature. Hydrodynamically, the effect of both formulation types would be minimal on ship scale, due to their small roughness heights.