ANTI-FOULING METHODS WITH METAL COMPLEX COMPOSITIONS

Compounds of formula (I) are disclosed: (see formula I) wherein L1 is a main group atom, L2 is a neutral ligand, M is a transition element or a metal element of Group 13, 14, 15, or 16 of the Periodic Table, x is the number of coordination sites of M, R1 is a polymerizable group, R2, R3, and R4 are ligands, and R5 is an anionic ligand. The compounds or, monomers of formula (I) are capable of conversion to polymers by combination with one or more other known monomers, such as methyl methacrylate. Such polymers can then be added as a binder in a paint formulation to make marine antifouling coating compositions. Also described is a method to prevent fouling on surfaces wherein a composition containing a metal complex compound of formula (II): (see formula II) wherein M, x, L2, n, and R4 have the same meaning as in formula (I), is applied to the surface susceptible to fouling.