Degradable polyurethane based on triblock polyols composed of polypropylene glycol and ε-caprolactone for marine antifouling applications

Marine antifouling coatings require superior mechanical properties and effective antifouling. Degradable polyurethane (PU) coatings have a reputation for high performance. Degradable PU films were prepared by mixing triblock polyols [composed of polyether (polypropylene glycol or polyethylene glycol) and ε-caprolactone] and crosslinker agent (tolylene diisocyanate trimer). The hydrolytic degradation and water absorption experiments of PU films demonstrated that the PU films could erode in artificial sea water, which were mainly controlled by the hydrophilic property of the polyether. Marine field test revealed that degradable polyurethane had excellent efficiency in preventing biofouling for more than 9 months.