Enhancing photocatalytic performance of zirconia-based nanoparticles: A comprehensive review of factors, doping strategies, and mechanisms

This work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the many aspects that impact the photocatalytic capabilities of ZrO2 nanoparticles. The material's oxidation rates and photocatalytic efficiency depend on several operational variables. These variables include the substrate and photocatalyst concentration, solution pH, reaction time, irradiation time, intensity, and structure and properties of both the photocatalyst and the substrate. This review involves a comparative analysis of the photocatalytic efficacy exhibited by undoped ZrO2 nanoparticles in contrast to the doped ones. This study investigates the effects of different synthesis processes, reaction conditions, precursor and dopant characteristics, and their concentrations on the photocatalytic performance of ZrO2 nanoparticles. This study examines the impact of doping ZrO2 nanoparticles with metals, non-metals, and metal oxides on several characteristics such as size, structure, morphology, bandgap, crystalline phases, surface area, and surface defects. The relationship between these modified features and the resulting enhancement in the photocatalytic activity of ZrO2 nanoparticles is explored. The purpose of the review is to provide valuable insights for the development of effective zirconia-based photocatalysts.