Review on the preparation and performance improvement methods of bismuth photocatalyst materials

With the development of human society, the discharge of various pollutants increases gradually, which gradually worsens the environment. Nowadays, the emission of pollutants is gradually under more strict control. Bismuth-based photocatalysts have attracted much attention due to their visible light response characteristics, unique layer structure and adjustable electron band structure. However, their photocatalytic performance is not satisfactory, which hinders their practical application. Therefore, many researches have been carried out to improve its photocatalytic performance. In this paper, the modification methods and mechanisms of bismuth-based photocatalysts and the strategies to improve the photocatalytic activity of these materials were reviewed, including the latest progress in the preparation and performance improvement of bismuth photocatalysts such as bismuth vanadate photocatalyst, bismuth halide photocatalyst, bismuth tungstate photocatalyst, bismuth titanate photocatalyst and so on. Various reaction mechanisms of bismuth photocatalyst were discussed in the hope of providing ideas for developing more efficient bismuth photocatalyst materials. Finally, the application prospect and challenges of bismuth-based photocatalytic materials are discussed.