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Siloxane-polyurethane Coatings with Surface Modifying Amphiphilic Additives - Available Technologies - NDSU Research Foundation

Siloxane-polyurethane Coatings with Surface Modifying Amphiphilic Additives

DESCRIPTION

This patent demonstrates how incorporating tailored amphiphilic additives enhances coating performance by promoting controlled surface migration of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments. These additives optimize surface composition to reduce organism adhesion, improve foul-release, and maintain coating uniformity over time. The result is a coating with superior durability, elasticity, and resistance to biofouling under dynamic marine conditions. By reducing defects and maintaining a balanced surface energy, the technology delivers more consistent performance, longer service life, and greater environmental compatibility compared to conventional fouling-release coatings.

Benefits

Enhanced fouling-release performance through stable amphiphilic surface formation
Improved long-term durability and resistance to surface degradation
Better elasticity and mechanical strength under marine conditions
Reduced surface defects and improved coating uniformity
Sustained low surface energy and balanced hydrophilic–hydrophobic profile
Greater adhesion stability and reduced delamination over time
Environmentally friendly, biocide-free fouling-control solution
Extended service life and reduced maintenance frequency for coated structures

Applications

Marine vessel hull coatings to reduce drag and biofouling buildup
Underwater structures such as buoys, docks, and pilings
Aquaculture tanks and nets
Seawater intake and discharge systems
Pipelines and offshore platforms are exposed to microbial fouling
Underwater sensors, sonar housings, and ship components requiring smooth surfaces
Industrial water-handling equipment, including cooling systems and filtration membranes
Non-marine uses, such as biomedical devices or sanitary surfaces, where reduced adhesion of biological material is desired.