Synthesis regulation, antifouling mechanism, optimization modification and application of cuprous oxide photocatalytic nanomaterials: A review

Research into cuprous oxide (Cu 2 O) is continually expanding. This traditional antifouling material is now being widely applied as a photocatalytic nanomaterial. This review comprehensively summarizes recent breakthroughs in Cu 2 O photocatalytic nanomaterials, focusing on their antifouling mechanisms and expanding applications. The main contents include: preparation technology innovations, antifouling mechanism analyses, performance optimization strategies, and application scenario expansion. Firstly, it overviews advanced preparation methods such as liquid-phase reduction, hydrothermal synthesis, and electrochemical deposition, along with regulatory effects on the microstructure, particle size, crystal facets, and crystalline structure of Cu 2 O. Secondly, the multiple antibacterial mechanisms of Cu 2 O were revealed from three dimensions: copper ion release-mediated biocidal action, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and cell membrane destruction. Subsequently, the optimization strategies for the antifouling performance of Cu 2 O materials through interface matching regulation by nanomaterials of different dimensions were reviewed. Fourth, this review thoroughly analyzes application prospects of Cu 2 O in diverse scenarios, including ship maintenance, sensing technology, water purification, and aquaculture. Finally, future development prospects are outlined. Based on the existing technical bottlenecks, this review proposes that Cu 2 O will develop in the direction of intelligence, environmental protection and high efficiency in the future.