Editing Biofouling (section)

===== Biocides =====
{{main|Biocide|Biomimetic antifouling coating}}
Biocides are chemical substances that kill or deter microorganisms responsible for biofouling. The biocide is typically applied as a paint, i.e. through [[physical adsorption]]. The biocides prevent the formation of [[biofilm]]s.<ref name="antifouling_review" /> Other biocides are toxic to larger organisms in biofouling, such as [[algae]]. Formerly, the so-called [[tributyltin]] (TBT) compounds were used as biocides (and thus anti-fouling agents).  TBTs are toxic to both microorganisms and larger aquatic organisms.<ref name="TBT_review">{{cite journal |last1=Evans |first1=S.M. |last2=Leksono |first2=T. |last3=McKinnell |first3=P.D. |title=Tributyltin pollution: A diminishing problem following legislation limiting the use of TBT-based anti-fouling paints |journal=Marine Pollution Bulletin |date=January 1995 |volume=30 |issue=1 |pages=14–21 |doi=10.1016/0025-326X(94)00181-8 |bibcode=1995MarPB..30...14E }}</ref> The international maritime community has phased out the use of organotin-based coatings.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Environment/Anti-foulingSystems/Pages/Default.aspx|title=Anti-fouling Systems|access-date=10 June 2017|archive-date=11 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170611064311/http://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Environment/Anti-foulingSystems/Pages/Default.aspx|url-status=dead}}</ref> Replacing organotin compounds is [[dichlorooctylisothiazolinone]]. This compound, however, also suffers from broad toxicity to marine organisms.