Recent Overview of Biochar Supported Photocatalysts (BSPs): Synthesis, Biochar’s Function and Engineered Biochar Applications

Abstract

Biochar-supported photocatalysts (BSPs) can be synthesized by mixing photocatalytic nanoparticles with biochar templates, utilizing the advantages of both biochar and catalytic nanoparticles. The resultant composite exhibits better surface properties, crystallinity, chemical stability, recoverability, and photocatalytic competency than the naked semiconductor photocatalyst. The research and advancements in BSPs based on the utilization of catalytic nanoparticles and cheap biochar are presented in this review. This review paper explains various synthesis techniques and the physiochemical properties of biochar-supported photocatalysts. The review then delves deeply into the ways in which biochar influences BSPs' photocatalytic performance, including how it supports nanoparticles, increases the number of active sites and surface area, shuttles electrons, acts as an electron reservoir, increases charge separation, and lowers band gap energy. The synergistic effects of BSPs' adsorption and photodegradation of organic pollutants are further supported by thorough mechanistic research. The application of BSPs in many industries is covered in the final section, along with practical suggestions for their continued development.