Piezoelectric effect coupled advanced oxidation processes for environmental catalysis application

The swift progression of industrialization poses a profound threat to environmental integrity, giving rise to environmental pollution and a consequential imbalance in ecosystems, thereby compromising public health. Consequently, the exigency for environmental remediation has become both urgent and imperative. Within this context, the burgeoning research field of piezoelectric catalysis has ushered in transformative and sustainable advancements in catalytic processes, untethered from the reliance on luminous energy or electricity inputs. This novel approach exhibits efficacy in generating reactive substances tailored to combat refractory contaminations. This comprehensive review delineates state-of-the-art progressions in piezoelectric materials, characterization instruments, mechanisms, and their applications in environmental decontamination. The exploration encompasses piezoelectric catalysis, piezo-photocatalysis, and various piezo-Fenton-like processes, including piezocatalytic H₂O₂ evolution, piezo-self cycled Fenton-like, and piezocatalytic persulfate and ozonation. A meticulous exposition begins with a detailed analysis of conventional and emerging piezoelectric materials, accompanied by a discussion on effectual and popular characterizations. The subsequent sections delve into the prevailing origin of the piezoelectric effect, prerequisites, improving strategies, and unresolved issues pertaining to the discernment of piezocatalytic mechanisms. Further, this review systematically explores the application of piezoelectric-coupled advanced oxidation processes and their intrinsic mechanisms in organic decontamination, H₂O₂ evolution, heavy metal reduction, bacterial disinfection, and CO₂ reduction. In conclusion, the paper articulates the challenges inherent in piezocatalytic techniques and proposes directions for future development. The aim is to contribute to an enhanced foundational understanding of piezoelectric catalysis and piezoelectric-based Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) as potent tools for addressing contemporary environmental challenges.