Synthesis of Acetylated Phenolic Compounds with Promising Antifouling Applications: An Approach to Marine and Freshwater Mussel Settlement Control

Abstract

Biofouling by mussels is responsible for serious economic losses worldwide. In Argentina,Limnoperna fortunei (Dunker, 1857) and Brachidontes rodriguezii (d’Orbigny, 1842) are commonand abundant bivalve species of great interest, inhabiting freshwater and marinecoasts, respectively. Both species are considered fouling pests for coastal industrial facilitiesthat use untreated water as part of their processes. To chemically control mussel biofouling,it is necessary to find efficient and environmentally friendly non-biocidal compounds. Inthis work, we report the antifouling activity of three phenolic compounds (hydroquinone,resorcinol, and catechol) and their respective acetylated derivatives against L. fortunei andB. rodriguezii mussels. Classic ecotoxicity tests with Artemia salina were also performed.Acetylated phenolic compounds were synthesized in the laboratory by sustainable chemistryprocedures. Results revealed the importance of hydroquinone, resorcinol, and catecholand their diacetylated derivatives for preventing the settlement of both these mussels, ina non-biocide way. Ecotoxicity bioassays revealed that these compounds were not toxic,with the exception of resorcinol. We propose the incorporation of these compounds in solutioninto closed circuits and water sprinkler anti-fire systems to prevent the settlement ofL. fortunei and their inclusion in antifouling paints to prevent the settlement of B. rodriguezii.These results highlight a new friendly alternative for controlling mussels.