Synthetic strategies of BiVO<sub>4</sub> for efficient visible-light-induced photocatalytic oxidation reactions: Activation via nanoparticulation and surface modification

Semiconductor photocatalysis utilizing visible-light is a promising approach toward our current environmental and energy challenges. Among various visible-light-driven photocatalysts, bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) recognized as an attractive material due to its benefits such low cost, non-toxicity, narrow bandgap (2.4 eV) with good response green light in the visible region, oxidation ability. Many approaches have been adopted improve photocatalytic activity of BiVO4-based photocatalysts/photoanodes, however, it still challenging further activities. In this review, we provide overview latest progress for photoelectrochemical O2 production on particle size crystallinity control by introducing newly developed, environmentally-friendly aqueous-based synthetic process. addition, specific surface modification, demonstrated enhancements decomposition or selective organic molecules BiVO4 photocatalysts. This review provides valuable insights into not only preparation highly-crystalline nanoparticles but also activation strategies efficient reactions using BiVO4.