文摘
We present a method for dual-mode-management of biofouling by modifying surface of silicone elastomers with zwitterionic polymeric grafts. Poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) was grafted from poly(vinylmethylsiloxane) elastomer substrates using thiol鈭抏ne click chemistry and surface-initiated, controlled radical polymerization. These surfaces exhibited both fouling resistance and triggered fouling-release functionality. The zwitterionic polymers exhibited fouling resistance over short-term (鈭糷ours) exposure to bacteria and barnacle cyprids. The biofilms that eventually accumulated over prolonged-exposure (鈭糳ays) were easily detached by applying mechanical strain to the elastomer substrate. Such dual-functional surfaces may be useful in developing environmentally and biologically friendly coatings for biofouling management on marine, industrial, and biomedical equipment because they can obviate the use of toxic compounds.