Enhancing the Properties of Photocatalysts via Nonthermal Plasma Modification: Recent Advances, Treatment Variables, Mechanisms, and Perspectives

Abstract

Surface modification is crucial in improving catalyst activity, since all catalytic reactions occur on the surface of the catalyst. This review discusses the application of nonthermal plasmas (NTP) for surface modification and functionalization of heterogeneous photocatalysts. NTP pretreatment provides an environmentally friendly and effective means for functionalization, surface etching, and/or defect regulation on the surface of photocatalysts. The correlations between modification variables and the properties of catalysts are reviewed in depth. Moreover, insights into the modification mechanisms are reviewed to provide state-of-the-art understanding and suggest that more advanced modification can be achieved. Finally, challenges and perspectives for future studies are provided.

Nonthermal Plasma Treatment for Electrocatalysts Structural and Surface Engineering

“…The gas pressure, which is positively correlated to the electron density, mainly affects the oscillation in plasma treatment. [ 36 ] Khaledian et al studied the operating pressure in Ar plasma for the treatment of rutile phase TiO 2 . [ 37 ] It was found that the decrease of pressure can subsequently enhance the velocity of Ar particles and the electrical field, resulting in more collision of the electrons with higher power to the TiO 2 surface.…”

CeO2-Enhanced CO2 Decomposition via Frosted Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma

“…With the rapid development of renewable energy, CO 2 conversion and utilization become possible, with various methods investigated. The methods exploited include catalytic conversion, − plasma conversion, − plasma catalytic conversion, − and others . Among these methods, the plasma conversions − are promising.…”

“…The methods exploited include catalytic conversion, − plasma conversion, − plasma catalytic conversion, − and others . Among these methods, the plasma conversions − are promising. Plasma is defined as a fourth form of matter.…”

“…In addition, the plasma CO 2 dissociation is an important process in electrical discharge CO 2 lasers . Increasing publications can be found in the literature on CO 2 decomposition by various plasmas. − ,− Among those plasmas exploited, dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma is a unique one − ,, because of its high effectiveness, simple setup, convenient monitoring, flexibility for scale-up, and easy on/off operation. It can be operated at atmospheric pressure.…”

Carbon Dioxide Conversion Synergistically Activated by Dielectric Barrier Discharge Plasma and the CsPbBr3@TiO2 Photocatalyst

“…28 Vice versa, the NTP could be used to achieve surface functionalization, defect regulation, and surface etching on the surface of packing materials. 29 For instance, the type of discharge gases and processing parameters determine the discharge characteristics of NTP, which leads to various functional groups grafted on the surface of photocatalysts. 30 And the high-energy electrons/ions from ionization in the NTP result in surface defects on the photocatalysts to some extent.…”