Eco-efficient synthesis of cinnamic-compounds as antifouling additives for marine coatings

Abstract

Marine pollution in ports caused by biocides-based antifouling paints is a growing problem worldwide. In thispaper we present a new sustainable alternative to reduce the use of copper and booster biocides in marineantifouling paints. In this way, five cinnamic acids and four alkyl-cinnamates were synthesized using eco-efficient procedures within the guidelines of sustainable chemistry. Experimental marine paints were formu-lated with these compounds and their antifouling performance was evaluated after 90 days of immersion in Mardel Plata harbor. Ecotoxicity-test on Artemia salina nauplii was also performed. Field and laboratory resultsindicate that 3,4,5-trimethoxycinnamic acid and isobutyl-cinnamate are promising additives for marine paints.