Results in Chemistry· 2025Q2· Review
The photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants-a comprehensive overview
- 75citations
- Q2SCImago
- 2025year
Short summary
Photocatalytic degradation uses light-activated semiconductor catalysts (e.g., TiO2, ZnO) to break down organic pollutants into CO2 and H2O via reactive species like hydroxyl radicals.
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Key points
- Photocatalytic degradation uses semiconductor catalysts (TiO2, ZnO, CeO2, g-C3N4) to break down organic pollutants.
- Reactive species (hydroxyl radicals, superoxide anions) are generated by light-activated catalysts.
- Catalyst efficiency depends on composition, morphology, bandgap, surface area, and operational parameters like pH and light intensity.
- Recent advancements aim to improve visible-light response and reduce charge carrier recombination.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Abstract
Photocatalytic degradation is a promising and eco-friendly technology that effectively removes organic pollutants from both air and water. This process relies on light-activated semiconductor catalysts such as TiO 2 , ZnO, CeO 2 , g-C 3 N 4 , and various heterojunction composites. These materials generate highly reactive species, including hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions, which are capable of breaking down persistent contaminants into harmless byproducts like carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and water (H 2 O). The efficiency of photocatalytic reactions is influenced by several factors, including the catalyst's composition, morphology, crystallinity, bandgap energy, surface area, light intensity, and wavelength. Operational conditions such as pH, contaminant concentration, and the presence of scavengers also play a significant role in determining the effectiveness of the process. Recent advancements in photocatalysis have focused on addressing challenges associated with conventional catalysts, such as limited response to visible light and fast recombination of charge carriers. Techniques such as surface modification, doping, the development of Z-scheme and S-scheme heterojunctions, and integration with carbon-based materials have been explored to enhance performance. This review provides an overview of the fundamental principles of photocatalysis, recent innovations in catalyst design, and the mechanisms involved in pollutant degradation. To translate this technology into practical, scalable solutions for reducing organic waste in the modern era, further interdisciplinary research and the development of cost-effective, visible-light-responsive, and durable photocatalysts are essential.
The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Results in Chemistry, 2025 · DOI ↗
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Field: Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment
Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the EnvironmentEnergy