Potential utility of BiOX photocatalysts and their design/modification strategies for the optimum reduction of CO2

As an effective means to efficiently control the emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), photo-conversion of CO2 into solar fuels (or their precursors) is meaningful both as an option to generate cleaner energy and to alleviate global warming. In this regard, bismuth oxyhalide (BiOX, where X = Cl, Br, and I) semiconductors have sparked considerable interest due to their multiple merits (e.g., visible light-harvesting, efficient charge carriers separation, and excellent chemical stability). In this review, the fundamental aspects of BiOX-based photocatalysts are discussed in relation to their modification strategies and associated reduction mechanisms of CO2 to help expand their applicabilities. In this context, their performance is also evaluated in terms of the key performance metrics (e.g., quantum efficiency (QE), space-time yield (STY), and figure of merit (FoM)). Accordingly, the morphology design of BiOX materials is turned out as one of the most efficient strategies for the maximum yield of CO while the introduction of heterojunctions into BiOX materials was more suitable for CH4 formation. As such, the adoption of the proper modification approach is recommended for efficient conversion of CO2.