Artifical fish flocked surface as a possible anti-biofoulant

Biofouling is a major problem for shipping, ecosystems and aquaculture industry. From the analysis of the factors affecting the biofouling process, the interference with the settlement and attachment mechanisms is the most promising environmentally benign option.This can be accomplished in two main ways: imitation of the natural antifouling processes and modification of the characteristics of the substrate. In the present study, biomimetic topography inspired by the fish skin of Yellowfin leatherjacket (Triacanthus blochii) was replicated in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer by nanocasting. The surface structures of the fish skin have been replicated with high fidelity. It should be noted that the surface roughness of our replica is invariable when using the same template and the process of replication is easy to control.