Lowfouling

Lowfouling refers to materials and surface treatments that minimize fouling, the unwanted buildup of biological organisms, proteins, minerals, and particulates on surfaces exposed to water. In contrast to traditional antifouling coatings that rely on biocides or toxic agents to deter settlement, lowfouling approaches aim to reduce adhesion and accumulation through the intrinsic properties of the surface.

The effectiveness of lowfouling surfaces stems from mechanisms that deter initial attachment. Hydrophilic and highly hydrated surfaces form barriers to protein adsorption, while polymer brushes provide steric repulsion. Zwitterionic or neutral chemistries, low surface energy, and smoothness can also reduce fouling. Strategies include grafting poly(ethylene glycol), applying zwitterionic polymers, and implementing slippery liquid-infused or other lubricant-infused coatings.

Applications are found in medical devices and sensors, water treatment membranes, marine coatings, and food processing equipment where fouling reduces efficiency or biocompatibility.

Evaluation relies on protein adsorption assays, microbial adhesion tests, and real-world fouling experiments, along with surface analyses such as contact angle measurements, spectroscopy, and microscopy. Challenges include durability under mechanical wear, salt and oxidant exposure, long-term stability, and achieving high resistance to a broad range of foulants while maintaining required functionality.

See also: antifouling, nonfouling, protein adsorption, biofouling.