NATURAL - Development of lignin-based eco-friendly antifouling coatings for marine applications

Project team: Paul Christakopoulos (project leader), Leonidas Matsakas, Petter Paulsen Thoresen, Ulrika Rova

Partners: Yijun Shi, Machine Elements LTU; Chalmers

Duration: 2021-2023

Funded by Formas

Biofouling, i.e. the accumulation of biological matter on submerged surfaces, poses a significant challenge to the efficiency and safety of maritime vessels and underwater infrastructure. As regulatory standards for antifouling coatings become increasingly stringent, there is a pressing need to explore alternatives to conventional biocidal formulations. NATURAL's objective is to pioneer the development of sustainable ship coatings that are both biocide-free and possess robust antifouling properties while minimizing environmental impact.

NATURAL’s approach involves blending readily soluble sulfur-free organosolv lignin with fouling-resistant polyethylene glycols (PEGs) and grafting lignin nanoparticles with PEG. These methodologies aim to yield high-performance lignin-based antifouling coatings with enhanced ecological credentials. Subsequent evaluation of the antifouling efficacy and hydrodynamic performance of these novel coatings will be conducted following their deployment in seawater environments.