WO 3 Inversce Opal Photonic Crystals: Unique Property, Synthetic Methods and Extensive Application

Abstract Tungsten trioxide inverse opal photonic crystals (WO 3 IOPCs) not only possess the intrinsic properties of WO 3 , but also own the unique characteristics of IOPCs structure. The evolution of preparation method of WO 3 IOPCs has been briefly presented as electrodeposition method, sol‐gel methodology and ‘dynamic hard‐template’ strategy in this review. Then the crystalline structure, optical property and electrical performance of WO 3 IOPCs are later described. Afterwards, this review focuses on the wide application of WO 3 IOPCs in chemical sensor, photo(electro)catalysis, electrochromic material and photochromic field in the last decade. Finally, a brief outlook over future investigation in preparation and modification, as well as promising application is proposed. This paper aims to encourage the attention and effort of researchers on WO 3 IOPCs and other semiconductor materials with IOPCs structure.