Advancements in graphitic carbon nitride based metal tungstate photocatalysts for enhanced energy and environmental remediation

Abstract

Metal tungstate (MWO₄) nanostructures were mixed with g-C₃N₄ (g-CN) to increase the photocatalytic activity. The use of these nanocomposite materials has shown surprisingly enhanced photocatalytic performance owing to efficient charge separation, enhanced light absorption and enhanced redox activity. The most recent studies aimed at enhancing the photocatalytic activity of metal tungstate (MWO₄) based on g-CN heterostructure nanocomposites are thoroughly described in this review. Here, we review the synthetic routes for these heterostructure materials based on precursors used during synthesis, in-situ formation techniques, as well as structural modifications. Moreover, we investigate the basic processes involved in improved photocatalytic performance, including charge separation, extended light absorption, and redox capability. The paper also discusses current developments in g-CN based metal tungstate heterostructures, with an emphasis on MWO₄ (M = Zn, Cd, Co, Ni_, and Cu) nanostructures. Finally, we analyse the optimization strategies and future potential approaches of designing and fabricating efficient photocatalysts from g-CN based MWO₄ heterostructures. Knowledge from this review paper will help to better understanding and will provide direction for future research projects aimed at maximizing the sage of metal tungstate combined with g-CN as a heterostructure photocatalyst for different photocatalytic applications.