Outlook on bismuth-based photocatalysts for environmental applications: A specific emphasis on Z-scheme mechanisms

Semiconductor photocatalysis is thought to be a viable solution for addressing the growing problem of
environmentalpollution . Bismuth (Bi) metal oxides
can function as a direct plasmonic photocatalyst or cocatalyst to accelerate thephotogenerated charge separation and thus improve their photocatalytic activity. Hence, Bi-based photocatalysts havereceived a lot of attention due to their extensive environmental applications, including pollutant remediation andenergy concepts. Massive efforts have been undertaken in the recent decade to find superior Bi-metal oxides (Bi XO X = MO, W, or Cr) and to uncover the corresponding photocatalytic reaction mechanism for the degradation of organiccontaminants in water. Herein, the unique crystalline and electronic properties and main synthesis methods, as well asthe major Bi-Based direct Z-scheme photocatalysts, are timely discussed and summarized in their usage in watertreatment . Besides, the impact of Bi
XO in energy storage devices and solar energy conversion
is reviewed as anenergy application. Finally, the future development and challenges of Z-scheme-based Bi XO
photocatalysts arebriefly explored, summarized, and forecasted.