Photocatalytic Degradation of VOCs: Emerging Trends in Visible Light Catalyst Modifications and Surface Engineering

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are hazardous contaminants released from industrial activities. They threaten human health and ecosystems, even at minimal doses. Nevertheless, the singular approach encounters issues, including excessive energy consumption, adverse environmental impact, and inadequate removal effectiveness. Currently, incorporating photocatalytic degradation of VOCs is regarded as a highly significant approach. Catalytic technology provides the benefits of cost-effectiveness and enhanced catalytic efficiency. The development of innovative catalysts is essential for the progress of catalytic technology approaches. Researchers have recently performed comprehensive studies and created innovative catalysts to treat multiple contaminants efficiently. The main aim of this article is to analyze the progress in catalyst research related to the synergistic catalysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). From the perspective of these constraints, novel photocatalysts are introduced and enhancing photocatalytic activity strategies such as introducing transition metal or non-metal ions, combining with other semiconductors, modifying the surface, altering the morphology, and employing various methods to achieve the degradation of simultaneously polar and nonpolar (VOCs) (specifically, toluene and formaldehyde, accordingly, it is the representative compounds) under visible light. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the relevant literature, specifically focusing on three main areas: a concise description of surface design catalysts, various methodologies for constructing visible light catalysts, and the impact of environmental conditions. The review aims to examine the connections between the properties and applications of oriented materials to advance the creation of new substances. This review indicates substantial challenges in applying photocatalysts to eliminate VOCs selectively. Several approaches should be coupled to provide synergistic effects, which could result in significantly higher photocatalytic performance than individual approaches.

Graphical Abstract