Research progress on waste-biomass-derived carbon-based photocatalysts by hydrothermal carbonization
Hydrothermal carbonization(HTC)is a facile and environmentally friendly thermochemical conversion technique for waste biomass.The preparation of carbon-based photocatalysts from waste biomass by HTC can realize the value-added utilization of waste and alleviate environmental pollution and energy crisis through photocatalytic applications.In this review,photocatalysts derived from waste-biomass by HTC are divided into three categories:hydrochars,carbon dots,and carbon-based composite photocatalysts,and their research progress in preparation,photocatalytic mechanism,and application is comprehensively summarized.Firstly,the synthesis of these photocatalysts,including the formation mechanism and the physicochemical properties of the products,is outlined.Secondly,the photocatalytic process and performance improvement methods of three types of photocatalysts are described,respectively.Thirdly,the photocatalytic applications in organic pollutant degradation,heavy metal removal,disinfection,hydrogen production,and CO2 reduction are listed.Finally,the future research focus and development direction in this field are prospected.