The purpose of this paper is to develop protective coatings containing antifouling compound for steel rebars.
In the present study, corrosion and settlement of micro and macro‐fouling organisms on coated and uncoated rebars were investigated. Two different types of coatings were applied: only primer for prevention of corrosion; and rosin‐based antifouling paint after application of primer.
According to results, the surfaces of the rebars coated by antifouling paints were remarkably cleaner than were those of uncoated and primer‐coated steels. Micro and macro‐organisms that settled on the rebars were identified after 90 days of seawater immersion in Izmir, Turkey.
The paper contributes to scientific literature by providing a protection method based on the use of antifouling coatings for steel rebars used in marine environments (e.g. bridge piers). It was concluded that steel rebars can be coated with antifouling paints before they are used for concrete constructions.
