Nanocomposite Zinc Oxide-Based Photocatalysts: Recent Developments in Their Use for the Treatment of Dye-Polluted Wastewater

Abstract

This review highlights current developments in utilising zinc oxide (ZnO) composite materials as photocatalysts. Systematic analyses of the various synthetic methods for producing ZnO-based hetero-structured materials, the variety of methods for their characterisation, their mechanisms of action, and widespread applications for the degradation of pollutants are discussed. Structure/activity relationships and methods of improving on some of the recognised shortcomings of ZnO-based nanomaterial catalysts are also presented.