Advanced Photocatalysts Based on Conducting Polymer/Metal Oxide Composites for Environmental Applications

Tran, Vinh Van; Nu, Truong Thi Vu; Jung, Hong-Ryun; Chang, Mincheol

Photocatalysts provide a sustainable method of treating organic pollutants in wastewater and converting greenhouse gases. Many studies have been published on this topic in recent years, which signifies the great interest and attention that this topic inspires in the community, as well as in scientists. Composite photocatalysts based on conducting polymers and metal oxides have emerged as novel and promising photoactive materials. It has been demonstrated that conducting polymers can substantially improve the photocatalytic efficiency of metal oxides owing to their superior photocatalytic activities, high conductivities, and unique electrochemical and optical properties. Consequently, conducting polymer/metal oxide composites exhibit a high photoresponse and possess a higher surface area allowing for visible light absorption, low recombination of charge carriers, and high photocatalytic performance. Herein, we provide an overview of recent advances in the development of conducting polymer/metal oxide composite photocatalysts for organic pollutant degradation and CO(2) conversion through photocatalytic processes.