Enhanced nanocatalysts

Abstract

Rapid development of nanofabrication techniques has created many different types of advanced nanosized semiconductors. Photocatalytic materials used to degrade organic and inorganic pollutants now include, in addition to TiO2, ZnO, Fe2O3, WO3, MoS2, and CdS. Nanoparticles’ unique properties, e.g. surface to volume ratio and quantum effects, continue to improve and expand photocatalysis’ role in areas like environmental remediation, odor control, sterilization, and renewable energy. Controlling semiconductor size, shape, composition, and microstructure promises to benefit future research and applications in these fields. This review examines recent advances at the interface of nanoscience and photocatalysis, especially pertaining to nanocatalyst enhancements, for current and future environmental applications.