Smart Nanomaterials for Photo-Catalytic Applications

Abstract

Smart nanomaterials are grabbing more significant attention. Photocatalysts are catalysts that can be stimuli by light with an appropriate wavelength. Photocatalysis is deemed to be a promising approach for the utilization of photo energy and has been extensively studied for many processes. Therefore, the synthesis of nanomaterials with tailored-made catalytic characteristics, are of great importance. For applications using visible light and hence solar energy, the modification of photocatalysts can occur via the formation of heterojunction nanocomposites by inhibiting the recombination of charge carriers. These applications are driven by solar energy, which is conducive to the sustainable development of energy resources with no impact on the environment. This chapter will include recent enhancements in the smart nanomaterials for photocatalytic applications, especially in the fields of removing environmental pollutants, self-cleaning surfaces, water splitting for hydrogen production to provide clean fuel resources, selective alcohol oxidation and CO2 reduction in the environment.