Advancements in the photocatalytic activity of various bismuth-based semiconductor/Ti3C2 MXene interfaces for sustainable environmental management: A review

Rapidly increasing world population and industrialization are difficult to balance our environment. Monitoring water pollution, depletion of fossil fuels, and greenhouse gas emissions is paramount for the safety of our ecological system. This review is intended to address the environmental monitoring applications (toxic matter degradation, H2 evolution, CO2 reduction, and N2 reduction) through the possible interfacial insights involved between various bismuth (Bi) based semiconductors and 2D Ti3C2 MXenes. In this spotlight, we explored strategic point contact (0D/2D) and face contact (2D/2D) interface information towards superior charge carrier generation, separation, and shortened charge transfer path under suppressed recombination. Considering the diverse morphological advancements in Ti3C2 (multilayer, monolayer, QDs, and completely derived C-TiO2), unique interfacial charge transport mechanisms were revealed. Band alignment modulations distinguishably functionalized the charge carrier separation and its participation in photocatalytic activity. With the control on face contact 2D/2D interface, abundant surface-active sites promoted toxic dye degradation, CO2, and N2 reduction. Overall, this review described the concept of advancements in surface interfacial interaction. Finally, challenges and perspectives on future research are also provided.