A method of protecting a polymer surface against fouling, which method comprises embedding in the polymer surface particles having antifouling properties, wherein the particles are embedded in the polymer surface by a spray mechanism in which the particles are accelerated and sprayed onto the polymer surface with a suitable velocity such that the particles become embedded in the polymer surface, wherein the particles are embedded in the polymer surface without an adhesive or binder and wherein the particles do not form a continuous layer on the polymer surface.