Slow Release Non-Toxic Antifouling Additives for Coatings Used in Aquaculture

There is a tremendous need within the aquaculture industry for a durable, effective antifouling coating that is non-toxic and is ecologically acceptable. The successful development of slow release, non-toxic antifouling coating additives for aquaculture equipment will significantly impact the efficiency, productivity, and profitability of aquaculture industries by extending equipment life, generating higher quality product at higher yields, and reducing labor costs. Current antifouling coatings either contain additives that function via a toxic mechanism or are short-lived due to quick leaching of the antifoulants and/or fragile coating matrices. Subsequently, their current use in aquaculture is severely limited. The overall goal of the proposed project is to address the need for long-lasting antifouling technologies that do not rely on the release of toxic agents. On a unit process level, the development of new materials and coatings for aquaculture equipment will simplify the aquaculture growing process by reducing cleaning efforts. This will result in increased productivity, higher quality product, and less environmental impact.