Lanthanide ions doped ZnO based photocatalysts

Abstract

ZnO is a versatile semiconductor that finds prominence in the area of photocatalysis due to their compatible crystal structure and band gap edge potentials that are vital for the pollutant degradation reaction. Thus, fabrication of ZnO based nanomaterials with tailored properties remains as the trending topic in recent times. In this context, doping with lanthanide ion finds interesting because of their unique 4f electronic configuration which offers stupendous opportunity to modulate the optical, luminescent and surface acid-base properties of ZnO. This article provides concise overview about the influence of lanthanide ions dopant on the structure-optical properties of ZnO. The performance of Ln-ZnO towards the degradation of organic pollutants is discussed encompassing both the materials properties and photocatalytic reaction conditions under UV/visible and solar light. The co-doping of Ln-ZnO with non-metal/transition metal ion and modification of Ln-ZnO with carbon materials is also emphasized to underscore the recent advancements in this field. We anticipate that our review article provides adequate information into the rational design and development of Ln-ZnO for various applications.