Cyclam-based Cu(II) and Fe(III) complexes for antifouling coating development

Biofouling, the accumulation of microorganisms and macroorganisms on submerged surfaces, is responsible for equipment degradation and increased maintenance costs. Several efforts have been made for the development of efficient antifouling surfaces, but most coating formulations are still based on toxic and harmful compounds. This study evaluated the effectiveness of polyurethane (PU) coatings modified with cyclam-based Cu(II) and Fe(III) complexes in preventing Cobetia marina biofilm formation under controlled hydrodynamic conditions mimicking marine environments. The modified PU-based coatings incorporating these complexes showed promising results in reducing biofilm thickness (17-38%), biofilm total volume (33-39%) and culturable biofilm cells (36-39%) compared to the unmodified PU control. These findings demonstrate that cyclam-based Cu(II) and Fe(III) complexes are effective antifouling agents for marine applications due to their low ecotoxicity and compatibility with polymeric formulations.