Bioinspired Surfaces with Dynamic Topography for Active Control of Biofouling

Phanindhar Shivapooja^1,†, Qiming Wang^2,†, Beatriz Orihuela³, Daniel Rittschof³, Gabriel P. López^1,2,4,*, Xuanhe Zhao^2,4,*

Dynamic change of surface area and topology of elastomers is used as a general, environmentally friendly approach for effectively detaching micro- and macro-fouling organisms adhered on the elastomer surfaces. Deformation of elastomer surfaces under electrical or pneumatic actuation can debond various biofilms and barnacles. The bio-inspired dynamic surfaces can be fabricated over large areas through simple and practical processes. This new mechanism is complementary with existing materials and methods for biofouling control.