Morphology regulation and application of nano cobalt oxide (Co3O4) electrocatalysts for chlorine evolution toward marine anti-biofouling

For the optical equipment used in the marine environment, the quality and accuracy of the tests are easily affected by biological fouling. Hence, good anti-fouling performance is crucial for preserving the optical equipment. A new electrochemical chlorination anti-fouling system has been proposed for years and is suitable for underwater optical windows. In this paper, nano Co 3 O 4 electrocatalysts with different morphologies were prepared through the hydrothermal method to study the structure–activity relationship between their electrochemical properties and morphologies. The nanourchin Co 3 O 4 shows the best electrochemical properties resulting from its large surface area . The titanium mesh electrode with nanourchin Co 3 O 4 was used to evaluate the anti-fouling performance. In comparison to commercial dimensionally stable anode electrodes, the developed Co 3 O 4 /titanium mesh electrode has higher catalytic performance, better selectivity , and lower cost. The bactericidal rate can reach 95% in 20 mins and it can effectively inhibit the sedimentation of microorganisms on the glass surface. Therefore, it is a promising strategy to use the nanourchin Co 3 O 4 as an electrocatalyst to protect the underwater optical windows.