A Review on BiOX (X = Cl, Br and I) Nano-/Microstructures for Their Photocatalytic Applications

In the recent past, bismuth oxyhalides (BiOX) have been widely used for the photocatalytic degradation of the organic pollutants and other environmental remediation because of their higher stability, economic viability, nontoxicity and effective charge separation. We begin with the review of the different approaches adopted so far for BiOX (X = Cl, Br, and I) synthesis and a study of their photocatalytic performances under UV and visible light towards the various organic as well as inorganic pollutants. Later on, a study on further enhancement of the efficiency of BiOX under UV and visible light irradiation using recent advancements would be presented. The new approaches involve controlled morphology by forming composite and hybrid materials with other semiconductors and also doping with other metals and nonmetals that would undoubtedly be beneficial in the interfacial charge transfer and efficient inhibition of the photo-generated species. Herein, we would also exploit the recent developments in the research strategies for enhancing photocatalytic activity of BiOX.