Photon-Powered Ceramics: New Frontiers in Material Science and Applications

Abstract

This chapter provides a comprehensive review of light-mediated processes in advanced ceramics, emphasizing their role in developing new materials with enhanced properties. The discussion covers photocatalysis for environmental remediation and energy production, ceramic materials in photovoltaic cells for sustainable energy, and the role of ceramics in photonic devices, such as waveguides, lasers, and optical fibers. The analysis also includes ceramic applications in laser technology, focusing on their optical properties, and biocompatible and bioactive ceramic materials in biotechnology for drug delivery, sensors, and theragnosis. Additionally, the chapter examines how light-mediated processes contribute to sustainability and the circular economy by enhancing material properties at the nanoscale and promoting energy-efficient production and recycling methods. The aim is to highlight the transformative potential of light interactions in ceramics, driving advancements in energy efficiency, environmental protection, and medical technology, and inspiring future research and applications in these areas.