Improving Photocatalytic Performance Using Nanopillars and Micropillars

A recent research emphasis has been placed on the development of highly crystallized nanostructures as a useful technology for many photocatalytic applications. With the unique construction of semiconductor transition metal oxide nanostructures in the form of nanopillars-artificially designed pillar-shaped structures grouped together in lattice-type arrays-the surface area for photocatalytic potential is increased and further enhanced through the introduction of dopants. This short review summarizes the work on improving the efficiency of photocatalyst nanopillars through increased surface area and doping within the applications of water splitting, removal of organic pollutants from the environment, photoswitching, soot oxidation, and photothermalization.

Automated summary

Recent research has focused on the development of highly crystallized nanostructures as a useful technology for various photocatalytic applications. By utilizing semiconductor transition metal oxide nanostructures in nanopillar form, the surface area for photocatalytic potential can be increased through dopants, enhancing efficiency in applications such as water splitting and removal of organic pollutants from the environment.