Nano copper oxide incorporated polyethylene glycol hydrogel: An efficient antifouling coating for cage fishing net
Nano copper oxide incorporated polyethylene glycol hydrogel: An efficient antifouling coating for cage fishing net
Date
2016
Authors
Ashraf, P.M.
Edwin, L.
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Abstract
Netting materials used for cage aquaculture were always susceptible to clogging of mesh lumen due to
biofouling. Here we report a microwave assisted in situ synthesis of nano copper oxide incorporated
polyethyleneglycolmethacrylate based hydrogel over nylon fishing cage net and its evaluation for
resistance to fouling. Physicochemical and morphological characteristics of the material were studied
using UVevis spectrophotometry, FTIR, TEM and SEM. FTIR spectra showed the formation of the hydrogel
e copper composite over the nylon twines through the amino/carbonyl groups of nylon with vinyl CH2
group of hydroxyethylmethacrylate. The SEM characterization exhibited a uniform thin film of composite
formed over the nylon netting material. The hydrogel reinforced with 0.004% (wt/vol) copper oxide
treated netting material exposed for 90 days to the estuarine environment exhibited excellent fouling
resistance with lowest biomass accumulation. Copper oxide in the matrix played an important role
synergistically along with hydrophilic hydrogel to deter the biofilm formation and hence attachment of
fouling organisms over the nylon. This study highlights the composite as a potential candidate and
efficient molecule to prevent fouling in the aquaculture cage nets.
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Citation
International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation 115 : 39-48