Recent developments in and perspectives on ReFeO3-based composites for emerging photocatalytic applications: a critical review

Abstract

Photocatalysis has become a desirable technique to solve the current problems of environmental deterioration and energy shortage with its unique greenness. Perovskite-type rare-earth ferrites (ReFeO₃) are visible light-responsive photocatalysts with high stability and tunable energy band structures. However, their severe charge recombination and small specific surface area limit their photocatalytic activity. The construction of perovskite-type rare-earth ferrite-based heterojunctions by introducing other semiconductors can improve their charge separation and enhance their photocatalytic activity. This article reviews the research progress of ReFeO₃-based composite photocatalysts. Herein, the preparation methods for ReFeO₃ and ReFeO₃-based composites are first introduced. Next, the characterization means for evaluating their crystal morphology and structure, catalyst photoelectric properties and reaction mechanisms are summarized, and the latest applications of ReFeO₃-based composite photocatalysts in the fields of environment and energy are systematically summarized based on the charge transfer mechanisms of different heterostructures. Finally, the current unsolved problems and future research directions are highlighted.