Antifouling surfaces of self-assembled thin layer

Advances in new technologies such as biosensors, biomedical implants rely greatly on the performance of devices. In this chapter, strategies for preventing fouling of proteins, bacteria, and marine fouling organisms by using self-assembled thin layers are reviewed. One of the commonly used methods for inhibiting the adhesion of proteins, bacteria, and marine organisms is the modification of the surfaces with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) monolayers or PEG-based alternatives, others such as oligo(ethylene glycol), zwitterionic molecules, enzymes, and functional polymers have also been used for antifouling materials with much less environmental impact than traditional biocides. Protein-resistant coatings may also resist bacterial attachment and the subsequent biofilm formation. The emergence of environmental issues has necessitated the development of nontoxic and biocompatible antifouling surfaces under marine environments. Although considerable progress has been made in the design of antifouling coatings, challenges still remain, including comprehensive understanding of the underlying adhesion mechanisms, seeking for more environmentally friendly and effective, and even "universal" nonfouling materials in the future.