ABSTRACT
This article targets those interested in an overview of biofouling and its control. We provide one perspective on current antifouling and foulrelease strategies and future development of antifouling technology. In particular, we document the evolution, from a biological standpoint, of nontoxic antifouling concepts. We provide entry to the primary issues and literature as well as to the antifouling and foul-release research community and coatings industry. We conclude that completely nontoxic antifouling coatings are unlikely to be effective in control of fouling. If new technologies are to eventually replace the toxic metal coatings currently in use, they will combine antifouling and foul-release properties. This change will probably not occur until governments mandate alternatives to toxic metal coatings.
