Antimicrobial and anti-biofilm coatings for fuel tanks

 
Microbial contamination and growth of fungi and bacteria in fuel tanks is a well-known problematic. Usual methods to control microorganisms' growth in aircraft fuel are based on expensive and complicated monitoring, maintenance, and treatment operations. Fuel tank coatings based on nitrile rubber, epoxy or polyurethane technologies are already applied for corrosion protection. However, they are not able to avoid microbial contamination and biofilm growth. We have recently developed effective and durable antimicrobial and antibiofilm coatings for fuel tanks. Minimum inhibitory concentration of selected biocides has been measured. Biofilm models have been set up and evaluated. Microbiological analysis, antibiofilm properties and release studies have also been carried out. Finally, coating performance (i.e. adhesion, hardness, fuel resistance) have been successfully validated. Faster, more efficient, and low-cost maintenance process could be achieved by applying these new functional coatings. They are a promising alternative for eliminating fungi growth in the fuel tanks.