Synthetic strategies of BiVO4 for efficient visible-light-induced photocatalytic oxidation reactions: Activation via nanoparticulation and surface modification

Semiconductor photocatalysis utilizing visible-light is a promising approach toward our current environmental and energy challenges. Among various visible-light-driven photocatalysts, bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) is recognized as an attractive material due to its various benefits such as low cost, non-toxicity, narrow bandgap (2.4 eV) with a good response to green light in the visible region, and oxidation ability. Many approaches have been adopted to improve the photocatalytic oxidation activity of BiVO4-based photocatalysts/photoanodes, however, it is still challenging to further improve its activities. In this review, we provide an overview of our latest progress for photocatalytic and photoelectrochemical O2 production on particle size and crystallinity control by introducing a newly developed, environmentally-friendly aqueous-based synthetic process. In addition, by specific surface modification, we have demonstrated activity enhancements in the decomposition or selective oxidation of organic molecules on the BiVO4 photocatalysts. This review provides valuable insights into not only the preparation of highly-crystalline BiVO4 nanoparticles but also activation strategies for efficient oxidation reactions using BiVO4.