Recent Advances in Perovskite-Based Heterojunction Photocatalysts: Synthesis, Properties, and Applications

Photocatalysis has attracted increasing scientific interest since it represents a promising path to combat the growing energy crisis and environmental pollution problems. Among the various materials used in photocatalysis, perovskites have become ideal photocatalysts due to their superior optoelectronic, morphologic, and physicochemical properties. However, pristine perovskites still have issues, such as weak stability, limited carrier extraction, and restricted active sites. Therefore, various strategies have been developed to improve the photocatalytic activity of pure perovskites in combination with other materials to form more efficient heterojunction composites. This review paper aims to report on the latest advances in the development, characterization, and photocatalytic efficiency of perovskite-based heterojunction composites coupled with binary and ternary semiconductors, carbon materials, metal oxides, and sulfides. The photocatalytic processes covered in this work are CO2 reduction, H2 generation, and the degradation of organic pollutants. This study is expected to intensify research on the development of perovskite-based composites and their future application to obtain chemicals of industrial interest, biofuels, and clean water with perspective at pilot and industrial scale.