Nanoarchitectured bismuth-based structures for diverse applications: Recent advancements and latest breakthroughs

Abstract

Among various inorganics, bismuth (Bi)-based nanomaterials have gained vast interest due to their high X-ray absorption coefficient, diamagnetism, and metal-semiconductor properties, which are of specific interest in metallurgy, engineering, and medicine-related fields. Although not as popular as copper, iron, and platinum in terms of availability and features, this high atomic number (Z-value)-based Bi element offers similar properties to gold along with a low synthesis cost, facile operation, and unique properties with broad prospects, conquering a significant position among these inorganics. Despite the success in fabricating various Bi-based nanomaterials by altering their structure and shape, these materials suffer from some shortcomings, such as deprived conductivity and catalytic properties, as well as accumulation-induced safety risks and environmental pollution due to poor degradability, impacting aquatic organisms and human health. In this article, a comprehensive view of diverse Bi-based materials for various applications is provided, presenting recent advancements and the latest breakthroughs. Initially, we present the chemistry and configuration of Bi, emphasizing the feasibility for fabricating various composites. Then, we introduce various commonly used fabrication strategies of Bi-based composites, highlighting the factors affecting their morphological properties. Further, various major classes of Bi-based materials are presented, exploring the influence of structural forms and their roles in various applications. Finally, we synopsize the article with interesting perspectives, presenting challenges and opportunities that still exist for these Bi-based materials.