An exploration of tailoring of hetero-nanostructures of α-MoO3 for efficient electrocatalytic and photocatalytic applications

Abstract

The primary focus of this review is the wide range of techniques available for generating α-MoO₃ nanostructures. Some examples of these processes are hydrothermal method, solvothermal method, sol-gel methods, spray pyrolysis chemical, thermal evaporation, and own heterostructures. The various crystal and electronic structures of α-MoO₃ offer a wealth of possibilities for the discovery of electrocatalysts that are suited for the creation of hydrogen through the splitting of water molecules. The orthorhombic form of α-MoO₃ has showed potential electrocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), while the polymorph has shown poor oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity. This is the case even though both forms have been investigated. The as-prepared nanostructures were found to be effective photocatalysts for the breakdown of acridine orange when exposed to ultraviolet light. A high photocatalytic property was shown by the generated mixed morphology, which consisted of hexagonal nanoplatelets and nano bars, in order to breakdown the carcinogenic Acridine Orange dye. In addition, as a result of their 1-Dimensional and 2-Dimensional nanostructure feature, they are capable of being recycled with relative ease while maintaining their photocatalytic activity. In order to highlight the potential of α-MoO₃ heterogeneous nanostructures for electrocatalytic and photocatalytic processes like CO₂ reduction, hydrogen evolution, and pollutant degradation, this review will analyze and summarize recent developments in these areas. Also covered in this article are number of contemporary difficulties as well as prospective research directions based on α-MoO₃ nanostructures.