The influence of polysiloxane functional groups on phototrophic colonization

Wood is one of the most widely used construction materials. As a natural material, it is susceptible to the damaging effects of environmental factors. Therefore, researchers are developing innovative solutions to protect wooden surfaces from the harmful effects of moisture or biological agents such as algae and fungi. The objective of the current study was to test the effectiveness of four polysiloxane compounds functionalized with hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups as potential agents for the protection of wood surfaces against biocorrosion caused by photosynthesizing microorganisms. The results of the study clearly indicate that the biological properties of the coating are affected not only by the types of functional groups in the polysiloxane but also by their amounts.