Recent Developments in Fullerene-Based Materials for Photocatalytic Applications in Wastewater Treatment and Water Splitting

The use of semiconductor-based photocatalytic methods has been widespread for a range of applications, including pollution control and energy generation. However, certain analytical concerns limit the effectiveness of these photocatalysts, such as their limited light absorption capacity, physicochemical instability, and large energy band gap. To address these issues, scientists have been exploring integrating carbonaceous materials into photocatalytic systems to enhance their activity. This review focuses specifically on fullerene photocatalysts, a type of carbonaceous photocatalyst that has shown great promise in recent research. Fullerenes, which include C60 and C70, have unique properties that make them ideal for use as photocatalyst amplifiers in combination with other semiconductors or non-semiconductors. This review summarizes recent research into the use of fullerene-based materials for a variety of photocatalytic applications, including pollutant degradation, and hydrogen energy production. The efficacy of fullerene-based photocatalysts is also discussed in recent breakthroughs in photocatalytic mechanisms and synthesis methods, focusing on pollution removal and hydrogen generation. Finally, the review addresses ongoing challenges and opportunities for fullerene-based photocatalysts. The goal is to contribute to advancements in environmental protection and energy generation. Photocatalytic wastewater treatment and water splitting are effective approaches to combat rising water pollution and energy crises. Carbonaceous materials, especially fullerene-based materials, exhibit promising characteristics in improving the efficiency of photocatalysis for wastewater treatment and water splitting. This can help produce hydrogen, address water scarcity, and meet increasing energy demands. image