Design, modulation and current advances in energy and environmental applications over In2O3-based photocatalysts

Abstract

The excessive consumption of fossil fuels, discharge of untreated industrial wastewater and exhaust emission is engendering severe energy crisis and causing damage to the environment. Photocatalysis technology with the characteristics of environmental friendliness and effective utilization of solar energy is an expected to solve energy and environmental problems. Indium oxide (In2O3) is of considerable interest as a promising photocatalyst due to the chemical and thermal stability, suitable band structure and good optical response. This review gives an overview of In2O3-based photocatalysts and their applications based on the research of our group and others. In particular, the modification strategies to improve photocatalytic activities from its structural characteristics, including morphology control, element doping, modulate the surface electronic structure, surface modification, heterojunction construction and single atom engineering are summarized. Furthermore, the research progress in photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production, oxygen evolution, CO2 reduction, N2 fixation, pollutant degradation and organic synthesis are presented. Finally, the research challenge is summarized and prospected on In2O3-based photocatalysts. This review provides guidance for the rational design and synthesis of efficient In2O3-based photocatalysts for energy and environmental applications.