Chapter 13 - Carbon-supported semiconductor nanoparticles as effective photocatalysts for water and wastewater treatment

Abstract

Semiconductor photocatalysis is a promising technology for the removal of persistent organic pollutants in water systems. For developing an ideal photocatalyst, immobilization of semiconductor nanoparticles onto carbonaceous materials is a standout strategy. Along with the direct implication in providing excellent adsorption and support, new and enhanced physiochemical properties can arise due to their synergy. Nanocarbon materials can develop an intimate heterojunction contact with nanoparticles and thus readily involve in the photocatalytic electron transfer process. Almost all aspects of photocatalysis such as the narrowing bandgap, visible light harvesting, and stability can be improved by hybridizing semiconductor nanoparticles with various carbonaceous materials. This chapter provides an outlook toward the carbon-supported semiconductor photocatalysts by covering activated carbon, mesoporous carbon, fullerenes, carbon nanotubes, graphene, carbon quantum dots, carbon nanofibers, carbon black, and graphitic nitride. The proposed enhancement mechanisms and recent progress in the application in water and wastewater treatment are discussed in detail.