A review of BiPO4, a highly efficient oxyacid-type photocatalyst, used for environmental applications

Abstract

Semiconductor photocatalysts used for environmental applications have attracted a lot of attention due to their ability to completely convert pollutants into CO₂ and H₂O. For a simple and economical treatment, more efficient photocatalysts are highly desired compared to widely used TiO₂. A non-metallic oxyacid type photocatalyst, BiPO₄, was first discovered by the author's group and is now commonly accepted as a superior photocatalyst compared to TiO₂ in the UV region. Because of its excellence, this paper has reviewed the recent progress on BiPO₄, specifically on the efforts from the author's group, including the preparation as well as the modification methods involved in activity enhancement. The description of the physical properties and typical degradation pathways of the photocatalyst are also given for better comprehension of the origin of its high activity. Furthermore, as a represented non-metallic oxyacid photocatalyst, research into BiPO₄ will offer guidelines for designing effective photocatalysts of the same type for environmental applications.