Molecular Design and Nanoarchitectonics of Inorganic–Organic Hybrid Sol–Gel Systems for Antifouling Coatings

Abstract

Environmental protection, especially fouling protection, is a very topical and wide-ranging issue. This review explores the development, molecular design, and nanoarchitectonics of sol–gel-based hybrid coatings for antifouling applications. These coatings combine inorganic and organic materials, offering enhanced stability and adaptability, making them ideal for protecting surfaces from fouling. This review covers key antifouling strategies from the past decade, including biocidal additives, fouling resistance, release mechanisms, and surface topological modifications. The sol–gel hybrid systems prevent biofilm formation and organism attachment by leveraging molecular interactions, making them particularly useful in marine environments. Additionally, the study emphasizes the coatings’ environmental benefits, as they offer a potential alternative to traditional toxic antifouling methods. Overall, this research underscores the importance of sol–gel technologies in advancing eco-friendly antifouling solutions.