Fundamentals and environmental applications of bismuth vanadate through photoelectrocatalysis

This review outlines the fundamentals of photoelectrocatalysis (PEC) using BiVO4 as a promising photoelectrode for environmental applications. Key PEC factors—light absorption, semiconductor properties, potential, temperature, and pH—are discussed. BiVO4’s optical, structural, and stability traits are compared with other vanadates. Synthesis methods (electrodeposition, SILAR, sputtering, and others) and performance-enhancing strategies (doping, heterojunctions, high-exposed facets) are examined. BiVO4’s pollutant degradation pathway and dual-function PEC systems are explored, emphasizing the balance between properties for efficient energy conversion and environmental cleanup.