An overview of graphene oxide supported semiconductors based photocatalysts: Properties, synthesis and photocatalytic applications

Graphene oxide (GO), which have many different oxygen-having groups (hydroxyl, carboxyl) is a tremendous graphene derivative and two dimensional carbon molecule. It was believed as a superb catalyst support and promoter for its large specific surface, carrier mobility and high optical transmittance. Explorers across multiple disciplines were paid huge concentration to it owing to the unique physiochemical characteristics. In this review, hybrids of graphene oxide and semiconductors promise photocatalysts owing to their flexible properties and the large number of synthesis variables obtainable for modifications. Recent developments were confirmed that the GO supported semiconductors based photocatalysts can be predictable as the most privileged and hopeful novel photocatalysts in the photocatalytic applications. Furthermore, we were discussed important progresses in an efficient GO supported semiconductors based nanocomposites, including the common preparation approaches and development mechanisms, as well as their recent applications such as, removal of contaminates, H2 evolution and CO2 reduction. This significant review ends with an outline and some perceptions on the challenges and new instructions in investigating GO supported semiconductors based photocatalysts. It is also believed that this review will encourage further exploration and will inaugurate new possibilities to increase new hybrid GO based semiconductors photocatalysts with new and inspiring applications. •The syntheses of graphene supported semiconductor based photocatalysts have been highlighted.•The progresses of graphene supported semiconductor based photocatalysts were evaluated.•The applications of graphene supported semiconductor based photocatalysts were reviewed.