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 Co3O4 electrocatalysts with different morphologies were prepared through the hydrothermal method to study the structure–activity relationship between their electrochemical properties and morphologies. The nanourchin Co3O4 shows the best electrochemical properties resulting from its large surface area. The titanium mesh electrode with nanourchin Co3O4 was used to evaluate the anti-fouling performance. In comparison to commercial dimensionally stable anode electrodes, the developed Co3O4/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 Co3O4 as an electrocatalyst to protect the underwater optical windows.