Prokaryote Fouling Communities on Novel Electrochemically Active Coatings after Submersion in Port Adelaide River Harbor Basin

Marine fouling has a detrimental effect not only on structures but also is a source of ongoing economic losses. However, controlling marine fouling is complex, as multiple factors influence organism settlement. Currently, a majority of the antifouling coatings in use are hazardous to the environment. This study presents an effective novel electrochemically active method for preventing the settling of macrofouling organisms and reducing microfouling attachment. Painted coupons were submerged in the Port Adelaide River harbor basin (Osborne, South Australia) for 55 days. Scanning electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and 16S amplicon sequencing were undertaken to assess the antifouling efficacy of the coatings. Our results show that no macrofouling was present on any coatings that were the subject of electrochemical parameters. A reduction in the number of attached microorganisms was evident on the electrochemical coatings. The development of an environmentally friendly antifouling treatment could revolutionize the shipping industry and eliminate any biosecurity risks.