Transparent and mechanically durable silicone/ZrO2 sol hybrid coating with enhanced antifouling properties

Achieving a delicate equilibrium between the mechanical and antifouling attributes of silicone-based coatings remains a formidable task. This research unveiled a novel approach to crafting a hybrid antifouling coating through the amalgamation of an amphiphilic telomer, Zirconia (ZrO2) sol, triethoxyoctylsilane (KH832) and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) using an uncomplicated sol–gel technique. The amphiphilic telomer, derived from a synthesized antibacterial acrylamide-benzothiazole small molecule, hydrophobic silanes/fluorosilanes, and hydrophilic monomers, was intricately tethered with the ZrO2 sol, synthesized through the hydrolysis of n-propyl zirconate. The resultant coating achieved exceptional transparency (>98 % transmittance), attributed to the covalent linkage between the robust zirconia structure and the pliable, long-chain telomer. This unique bonding imparted the coating with remarkable characteristics, including high hardness (4–6H), flexibility (∼5 mm bending diameter), wear resistance, and strong adhesion (∼2.89 MPa) to the substrate. Furthermore, the self-enrichment property of the non-leaching amphiphilic telomer within the hybrid matrix contributed to the coating's outstanding self-cleaning capabilities, as well as its remarkable ability to resist fouling, including bacterial adhesion, protein attachment, diatom deposition, and biofilm formation. Overall, our research systematically explored the influence of composition and structure on both mechanical properties and antifouling performance. Ultimately, we sought to advance the development of a high-performance organic–inorganic hybrid antifouling coating poised to address the diverse requirements of applications spanning optical instruments, foldable displays, marine facilities, and various other fields.