Recent advances on Bi2WO6-based photocatalysts for environmental and energy applications

Bismuth tungstate (Bi2WO6) has become a research hotspot due to its potential in photocatalytic energy conversion and environmental purification. Nevertheless, the limited light absorption and fast recombination of photogenerated carriers hinder the further improvement of the photocatalytic performance of Bi2WO6. Herein, we provide a systematic review for the recent advances on Bi2WO6-based photocatalysts. It starts with the crystal structure, optical properties and photocatalytic fundamentals of Bi2WO6. Then, we focus on the modification strategies of Bi2WO6 based on morphology control, atomic modulation and composite fabrication for diverse photocatalytic applications, such as organic synthesis, water splitting, CO2 reduction, water treatment, air purification, bacterial inactivation, etc. Finally, some current challenges and future development prospects are proposed. We expect that this review can provide a useful reference and guidance for the development of efficient Bi2WO6 photocatalysts. (C) 2021, Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Bismuth tungstate (Bi2WO6) has attracted research attention for its potential in photocatalytic energy conversion and environmental purification, but its limited light absorption and fast recombination of photogenerated carriers hinder further improvement of its photocatalytic performance. Recent advances in Bi2WO6-based photocatalysts focus on crystal structure, optical properties, and photocatalytic fundamentals, as well as modification strategies for diverse applications like organic synthesis, water splitting, etc. Challenges and future prospects in this field are also discussed for the development of efficient Bi2WO6 photocatalysts.