Development of Non-toxic, Bio-Based Antifouling Treatments for the Aquaculture Industry

This research effort seeks to develop a non-toxic and biobased solution to the biofouling problem through the development of novel soy-based polymers that release biofouling when exposed to visible light.Biofouling, the unwanted growth of biological organisms on underwater surfaces, has long been recognized as a major problem for commercial aquaculture. Biofouling dramatically increases labor costs, reduces the value of product, and can harm cultured species. Fouling clogs gear, stops water flow and food delivery, can complete with culture organisms for food or space, and can directly affect the growth and survival of cultured organisms As a result, considerable physical and economic effort is directed toward the prevention and control of biofouling at culture facilities. Cleaning of gear and use of toxic coatings are the primary methods employed by the industry to maintain biofouling-free surfaces. Time and energy expended to keep gear clean taxes aquaculturalists consuming as much as 30% of labor costs and contributing 15% to operational costs. Non-toxic solutions to the biofouling problem that prevent growth for 12 months, are compatible with aquaculture gear, and are affordable do not exist.Phase I research demonstrated the feasibility us using soy-based polymers as photoactive release coatings for biofouling control. These polymers are engineered to react with visible light and release biofouling by the gradual breakdown of the surface binder resin catalyzed by the photochemical generation of peroxides for polymer scission. Phase II research seeks to optimize soy-based photoactive release coatings (SPRC) for use on aquaculture gear, confirm non-toxic claims, demonstrate long-life antifouling at aquaculture operations in different regions of the United States, and conduct demonstration projects with industry partners.Improved production efficiencies for the US aquaculture industry are needed as the cost of production continues to increase, while market prices remain the same or, as experienced more recently, have decreased due to increased competition on a global scale. The proposed non-toxic approach to prevent biofouling of aquaculture gear will improve production efficiency, and thus increase competitiveness of aquaculture in the United States. Eliminating costs associated with cleaning or changing gear used for growing shellfish and finfish by application of the proposed non-toxic antifouling technology will increase profitability of these farms. Improved animal health will result from clean nets and cages through better flow of nutrients and waste products. Most importantly, this research will provide a safe and cost-effective alternative to copper; the primary antifouling agent relied upon globally for farming finfish.Potential commercial applications for the proposed non-toxic biofouling release coating include netting used for fish farming (barrier and market), cages and bags used for oyster farming, lantern nets used for scallop farming, buoys and lines used for mussel and algae farming, barrier nets and bags used for clam farming, floating upweller systems (FLUPSY), fishing nets and traps, oceanographic equipment, and boat hulls.