Development of a High-Strength Zwitterionic Hydrogel to Combat Biofouling in Marine and Medical Applications

Abstract

Biofouling is a phenomenon that targets nonnative objects in biological settings, which has detrimental economic effects on global industry, notably those operating in marine or medical environments. In our efforts to prevent biofouling in various applications, we have developed a biocompatible polymer that exhibits incredible hydrophilic and nonfouling properties in a range of host systems, while boasting impressive mechanical properties and bulk stability of the coating. In this study, the mechanical properties and antifouling performances of high-strength zwitterionic hydrogel sheets and microgel coatings were studied at length. Both materials showed substantially improved antifouling effects versus polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and glass control surfaces and still presented superhydrophilic surfaces after more than 2 months in aqueous environments. In addition, fouling that does occur on our surfaces can be easily removed if light cleaning is performed at regular intervals. Consequently, these materials are viable options in many applications to negate the effects of biofouling.