Lignin-Based Antifouling Coatings for Marine Applications

Date:2 Feb 2024

Application

• Development of eco-friendly marine coatings to prevent fouling by seawater organisms.
• Use of lignin as a bio-based filler in waterborne coatings to reduce volatile organic compound emissions.

Description

This project explores the antifouling properties of unmodified kraft lignin for marine coatings, aiming to combat seawater organisms. Researchers formulated water-borne coatings with lignin as a filler to promote direct interaction with marine life. Although initial lab tests showed promise, field trials revealed limited antifouling performance and mechanical property issues with high lignin concentrations. The study provides a foundation for further exploration of lignin's potential in bio-based coatings.

Pathway Description:

The process used in this project involved formulating marine coatings with unmodified kraft lignin as a filler. The coatings were water-borne to reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) release. The lignin particles were incorporated at a pigment volume concentration above the critical pigment volume concentration to ensure direct interaction with seawater organisms. Field experiments at the CoaST Maritime Test Center were conducted to assess the antifouling performance of the lignin-based coatings.