Étude par coulométrie de la pénétration de l'eau dans des films de polymères formulés

Hulls protection towards settlement and growth of fouling is obtained by antifouling paints with a progressive release of toxic molecules at the ships surface. The research of a new generation of paints more compatible with living species implies to understand the phenomena involved in paints erosion and biocides release. Water penetration in polymeric matrix is important in regard to the control of ester functions hydrolysis and so to the control of bioactive molecules release. Among the different analytical methods aimed at the determination of the water amount in polymers, we have proposed to use coulometry in order to study the water penetration in polymeric films immersed in synthetic sea water. The analytical protocols developed have enabled to understand the evolution of six different matrixes during the immersion and the comparison of their ability to control release. Coulometry has made possible the study of the effects of additives used in the paints formulation on water uptake. Experimental data have shown that additives modify the evolution of the binder during immersion and that activity of paints is complex. Coulometry is a useful method to test polymers aimed at marine applications