Surface activity of fluoroblock copolymers in model marine coatings

Marine coatings are commonly based on silicone polymers, which have a low surface energy and a degree of deformability which contribute to release of marine fouling species. Low toxicity alternatives to inhibit fouling are sought to replace traditional toxic additives. Fluoroblock polymers are promising materials for this purpose, but their adsorption and release mechanisms, especially under immersion is poorly understood. We propose to explore the surface and interfacial segregation of model surfactants and fluoroblock copolymers from PDMS matrices with specular NR. Experiments carried out before and after curing the matrix; will guide our understanding of the role of curing on initial adsorption. NR in air will reveal segregation that is expected for fluorocarbons, even in silicone, whereas adsorption against water will give insight into additive function in marine environs.