The slip agents oleamide and erucamide reduce biofouling by marine benthic organisms (diatoms, biofilms and abalones)

Primary fatty acid amides are commonly found in grasses, microalgae, and animal. Oleamide and erucamide are fatty acid amide derivatives of oleic and brassidic acids, respectively. They are the most frequently used slip agents in industrial applications. We evaluated their potential application as antifouling coatings on submerged surfaces. The deterrent properties of parafilm wax plates containing oleamide and erucamide against the surface recruitment of diatoms and biofilms and the attachment strength of abalones were assessed. Both amides were effective, but oleamide had 1.4-2.5-fold greater deterrent effects against all three groups of foulers. The amides produced slippery surfaces to which the biofoulers attached weakly. The benthic organisms were readily dislodged by water motion. Thus, oleamide has potential as an ingredient in antifoulant coating materials. We also developed a rapid abalone detachment assay that can be used to test the efficacy of antifouling agents against slow-growing members of the macrobenthos.