Issue 34, 2016

Biomimetics for early stage biofouling prevention: templates from insect cuticles

Abstract

A biomimetic antifouling material study was carried out utilising superhydrophobic cicada and dragonfly wings replicated with a polymer (epoxy resin). They were tested in a marine biofouling study for up to 1 week in addition to biofouling assays of protein, carbohydrate and DNA absorption. The materials were compared against a commercial antifouling paint and a polymeric smooth surface constituting a control sample. The replicated surfaces demonstrated superior antifouling properties in comparison to the control and similar efficiency in DNA (10% reduction), protein and carbohydrate adsorption (15%) to the commercial anti-fouling paint. As the fabricated surfaces have roughness at the nanometre scale it is probable that the low adsorption properties, at least in the early stages, may be related to air trapped at the surface. Interestingly the most disordered replicated surface (dragonfly wing replicate) demonstrated the lowest values of absorption.

Graphical abstract: Biomimetics for early stage biofouling prevention: templates from insect cuticles

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
03 júl. 2016
Accepted
03 ágú. 2016
First published
04 ágú. 2016

J. Mater. Chem. B, 2016,4, 5747-5754

Biomimetics for early stage biofouling prevention: templates from insect cuticles

S. Gangadoo, S. Chandra, A. Power, C. Hellio, G. S. Watson, J. A. Watson, D. W. Green and J. Chapman, J. Mater. Chem. B, 2016, 4, 5747 DOI: 10.1039/C6TB01642A

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