The development of foul-release coatings for seagoing vessels

This paper is a record of the work of an informal, interdisciplinary group, which contributed to the development of what has come to be known as foul-release coatings. These 'non-stick', non-toxic, antifouling coatings are essentially low surface energy, silicone elastomeric materials, which can be applied by airless spray. The paper opens with an account of the development of antifouling provision, the nature of biofouling and a review of the adhesion mechanisms of diatom slimes, macroalgae and barnacles. The physics and chemistry of low surface energy coatings are then described, followed by the specific research evidence of the difficulty of settlement and adhesion of biofouling to these coatings. The development of a practical product as an applicable low surface energy antifouling, is outlined, followed by an account of ongoing research into the surface characteristics and fluid drag of these novel coatings, not only on ship hulls but also on propellers. The paper closes with some account of the world-wide environmental and economic advantages of foul-release coatings.