Impact of titanium and silicon metal oxide nanoparticles on surface coatings for marine vehicles to mitigate biofouling

• Published in: Particulate science and technology Vol. 42; no. 6; pp. 915 - 928
• Main Authors: Krishna Mohan, M. V., Srinivasa Reddy, P., Bhanu Prakash, T. V. K., Mukheerjee, Aditya
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Philadelphia Taylor & Francis 17-08-2024; Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subjects: Alkyd resins; anti-corrosion; Antifouling coatings; Antifouling compositions; Ball milling; Bio-fouling; Biocides; Biofouling; Coatings; Composition effects; Corrosion environments; Corrosion prevention; Effectiveness; Evaluation; Fourier transforms; Infrared analysis; Infrared spectroscopy; Low carbon steels; Marine environment; Metal oxides; Nanoparticles; nanoparticulate-based paint; Paints; Protective coatings; Sailing vessels; Sea vessels; Silicon dioxide; Spectrum analysis; Titanium; Titanium dioxide
• ISSN: 0272-6351; 1548-0046
• DOI: 10.1080/02726351.2023.2295978

This work aimed to develop antifouling coatings for maritime structures and sailing vessels by the integration of nanoparticles as very effective biocidal agents. The paint compositions were created by combining several components with a binder known as linseed alkyd resin. The preparation of TiO
2
and SiO
2
nanoparticles was conducted by the ball milling technique, followed by their application as pigments in nano paints. The corrosion characteristics of these coatings were examined after the incorporation of the nano paint, to diminish fouling and enhance antibacterial efficacy on maritime vessels. The enhancement of antifouling paint efficacy is expected to be substantial as a result of the advancement in nanoparticle-based compositions that exhibit biocidal capabilities. To evaluate the efficacy of nanocoatings, miniature specimens were submerged in a marine environment for 120 days. The coated samples underwent analysis by various techniques including scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Furthermore, an assessment was conducted to determine the efficacy of the protective characteristics exhibited by the coated tiny mild-steel samples. This evaluation involved subjecting the samples to a 120-day immersion in the ocean environment. The inclusion of SiO
2
and TiO
2
nanoparticles in the paints yields significant corrosion protection for the coated samples, in contrast to those lacking nanoparticles. Additionally, the latter exhibits superior anti-fouling properties.