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International Journal of
eISSN: 2576-4454

Hydrology

Opinion Volume 8 Issue 2

Sustainable hydrology through an Eco-friendly Xanthone-based approach in coating solutions

Pamela Mendioroz,1 Federico Ferrelli2

1Instituto de Química del Sur, INQUISUR (CONICET-UNS), Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Avenida Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
2Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Florida 8000 (Camino La Carrindanga km 7,5) Complejo CCT CONICET B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina

Correspondence: Federico Ferrelli, Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)- CONICET, Florida 8000 (Camino La Carrindanga km 7,5) Complejo CCT CONICET B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca 8000

Received: March 10, 2024 | Published: April 3, 2024

Citation: Mendioroz P, Ferrelli F. Sustainable hydrology through an Eco-friendly Xanthone-based approach in coating solutions. Int J Hydro. 2024;8(2):52-53. DOI: 10.15406/ijh.2024.08.00374

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Abstract

Traditional antifouling (AF) biocides have raised environmental concerns, prompting a search for sustainable alternatives. This study addresses this pressing issue by reviewing xanthone derivatives as promising candidates for environmentally friendly AF coatings, showcasing a balance between enhanced AF activity and minimal environmental impact. Furthermore, an innovative, scalable, and highly versatile methodology based on a green nanopalladium-supported catalyst on biochar is presented as an interesting alternative to synthesize diverse xanthone derivatives. This approach aligns with sustainable practices in organic synthesis and expands the repertoire of potential antifouling solutions.

Opinion

Traditional antifouling biocides have raised environmental concerns. Synthetic xanthones emerge as a promising solution for the following reasons:

  1. The adoption of alternative antifouling agents aligns with a growing global responsibility and consciousness towards environmentally friendly practices.
  2. By transitioning to these compounds, the marine industry can contribute to the reduction of ecological harm caused by traditional antifouling agents and thrive without compromising the health of our oceans.
  3. Embracing these alternatives reflects a commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and industries that lead this shift set a precedent for responsible practices, encouraging others to follow suit.

Introduction

Organic compounds for antifouling coatings

  1. Synthetic xanthones, as exemplified by 3,4-dihydroxyxanthone, offer a sustainable alternative to traditional antifouling biocides.1
  2. Recent advancements present an eco-friendly protocol employing a nanopalladium-supported catalyst on green biochar for the efficient synthesis of xanthone derivatives.2
  3. The recoverable and reusable nature of the catalyst underscores the commitment to sustainability.3

Substituent influence on AF activity

  1. Disubstitution with small, oxygenated groups enhances antifouling efficacy. Bulky hydrophobic or hydrophilic groups may compromise AF effectiveness.4
  2. The application of a green nanopalladium-supported catalyst on biochar, demonstrating versatility in the synthesis of xanthones.
  3. The resulting compounds encompass a range of structural variations, including those with dual methoxy substitutions (2,3-dimethoxyxanthone and 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methylxanthone), as well as derivatives featuring singular methoxy and hydroxy substitution.
  4. This structural diversity not only attests to the catalyst's versatility but also presents potential candidates for effective antifouling properties.5

Environmental fate and ecotoxicity

  1. 3,4-dihydroxyxanthone has been identified as non-persistent, non-bioaccumulative, and non-toxic. Competitive ecotoxicity potential compared to commercial biocides.
  2. The synthesis of these compounds through the proposed methodology aligns seamlessly with green and sustainable principles, offering a promising avenue for expanding the repertoire of environmentally friendly antifouling agents.
  3. Synthetic xanthones represent a balance between enhanced AF activity and minimal environmental impact. Further research and development crucial for advancing green antifouling solutions.6
  4. Immobilization of marine coatings:
  5. Preliminary studies of water solubility of xanthone derivatives in UPW and TSW at 24 ± 1 °C quantified by HPLC show low release, indicating a reduction in the leaching of antifouling agents into the marine environment. Compound degradation in water was also analyzed through DT50 in several stress conditions to mimic a natural degradative process with positive results.
  6. Promising anti-macrofouling effects found through inhibition studied of M. galloprovincialis larvae, showcasing effectiveness in inhibiting the attachment and growth of fouling organisms.7

Results

Synthetic xanthones offer a sustainable alternative to traditional antifouling biocides. Their efficient synthesis using a green nanopalladium-supported catalyst on biochar is scalable and environmentally friendly. Promising anti-macrofouling effects demonstrate their potential in reducing marine environmental impact. This green approach aligns with the global shift towards sustainable antifouling solutions.

Discussion and conclusion

The adoption of synthetic xanthones for antifouling coatings, coupled with a green and scalable synthesis methodology, presents a significant stride towards sustainable marine practices. This approach not only offers effective alternatives to traditional biocides but also aligns with the global commitment to reduce environmental impact. Embracing these innovations contributes to the preservation of marine ecosystems, marking a pivotal step in responsible environmental stewardship.

Acknowledgments

This work was supported by the National Council of Scientific and Technical Research and the FONCYT through the projects PICT-2021-I-INVI-00580 and PIBAA 28720210100943CO.

Conflicts of interest

The authors declare that no conflict of interest could be perceived as prejudicing the impartiality of the research reported.

References

  1. Vilas-Boas C, Neves AR, Carvalhal F, et al. Multidimensional characterization of a new antifouling xanthone: Structure-activity relationship, environmental compatibility, and immobilization in marine coatings. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety. 2021;228:112970.
  2. Steingruber HS, Mendioroz P, Diez AS, et al. A green nanopalladium-supported catalyst for the microwave-assisted direct synthesis of xanthones. Synthesis. 2020;52(04):619–628.
  3. Felpin FX, Fouquet E. Heterogeneous multifunctional catalysts for tandem processes: an approach toward sustainability. ChemSusChem: Chemistry & Sustainability Energy & Materials. 2008;1(8–9):718–724.
  4. Vilas-Boas C, Silva ER, Resende D, et al. 3, 4-Dioxygenated xanthones as antifouling additives for marine coatings: In silico studies, seawater solubility, degradability, leaching, and antifouling performance. Environmental Science and Pollution Research.2023;30:68987–68997.
  5. Mendioroz P, Steingruber S, Diez A, et al. Reacciones de acoplamiento cruzado catalizadas por Pd soportado sobre biocarbones. XXII Congreso Argentino de Catálisis. 2022. p. 1–6.
  6. Vilas-Boas C, Almeida JR, Tiritan ME. Beyond the marine antifouling activity: the environmental fate of commercial biocides and other antifouling agents under development. Advances in Nanotechnology for Marine Antifouling. 2023;87–116.
  7. Vilas-Boas C, Silva ER, Resende D, et al. 3, 4-Dioxygenated xanthones as antifouling additives for marine coatings: In silico studies, seawater solubility, degradability, leaching, and antifouling performance. Environmental Science and Pollution Research. 2023;30(26):68987–68997.
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©2024 Mendioroz, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.