• Dreanno, Catherine
• Jean-Yves, Coail
• Chalopin, Morgane
• Courson, Rémi
• Prado, Enora
• Rouxel, Justin
• Kata, Hajdu

Abstract

Marine biofouling is still considered to be a global problem. One of the main reasons is that it results in higher operational costs and efficiency. Beyond that, it also poses a significant environmental risk spreading marine pest species through the unwanted accumulation of marine microorganisms, plants and animals on submerged surfaces. The most common way to avoid biofouling is the use of chemically active antifoulants continuously releasing significant amounts of biocides into the oceans. In the framework of a European interregional cooperation (SmartT project, Interreg France-England), we present a new approach for biofouling prevention by the design and creation of innovative UV emitting e-textiles. The project will deliver prototype materials with specific newly developed inks that, by electrical stimulation, are able to deliver a controlled dose of UV irradiation. Marine bacteria Pseudoalteromonas sp. D41 served as model bioorganisms for pilot investigations on cell growths; morphological changes and biofilm formation after exposure to UV light. In order to define the minimum intensity, wavelength and illumination time required for an efficient antibacterial effect, five different commercially available UV light emitting diodes (LEDs) were applied at the following wavelengths: 255 nm, 275 nm, 310 nm, 348 nm and 385 nm. The measuring setup including power supply, light source and sample holder was designed in house with the help of a 3D printing platform. UV LED illumination was applied on Pseudoalteromonas sp. D41 bacteria in MB culture medium, and tested with varying initial cell concentration, illumination time, wavelength and light intensity. Biofilm formation on glass surfaces, with and without UV illumination, was monitored with epifluorescent measurement. UV light illumination had an effect on cell growth, cell morphology and biofilm formation. Efficiency ranged from immediate apoptosis to having no effect as a function of wavelength, illumination time and light intensity. Further measurement will be done on prototype materials in a different setup appropriate for tissue materials. As part of this collaboration, the developed SmartT technology is being adapted to a wide range of applications, from the threat of drug-resistant superbugs (drug-free anti-infective bandages) to the first dynamic tissue maps in the tourism and outdoor leisure market.

Topics

• impedance spectroscopy
• surface
• glass
• glass