An extensive catalytic potential of sustainable TiO2-based materials fabricated via flame spray pyrolysis: A comprehensive review

Abstract

TiO2-based materials have been extensively studied and explored in the field of catalysis. However, pristine TiO2 exhibits a wide energy band gap and fast charge recombination, restricting their large-scale applications. Their performance can be influenced by synthesis methods, doping, and by making composite. Among them, modifying the synthesis techniques, as well as the variables and settings that result in the preparation of highly active materials, is the most crucial stage in having these materials with superior catalytic activity. In contrast to the conventional synthesis approaches, flame spray pyrolysis (FSP), is found particularly simple, efficient, highly scalable, and appropriate for online continuous production and can be considered a promising approach for the fabrication of TiO2-based nanomaterials having controllable morphologies and composition. This review summarizes for the first time the recent advancements in TiO2-based materials synthesized via the FSP and their wide-ranging potential catalytic applications including photocatalysis, thermocatalysis, catalysis, and organic transformation. After a brief introduction to the conventional synthesis methods, the fundamentals of the FSP method, equipment, and components were highlighted. Finally, we critically analyze the potential advantages and challenges associated with flame spray pyrolysis, considered as a synthesis method for nanostructured materials. We carefully consider the prospects and limitations of FSP and emphasize key areas for future research and advanced developments in this field.