Limin Hu

Bio: Limin Hu is an academic researcher from Henan Normal University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Photocatalysis & Catalysis. The author has an hindex of 10, co-authored 12 publications receiving 1142 citations.

Recent developments in heterogeneous photocatalytic water treatment using visible light-responsive photocatalysts: a review

Abstract: Visible light-responsive photocatalytic technology holds great potential in water treatment to enhance purification efficiency, as well as to augment water supply through the safe usage of unconventional water sources. This review summarizes the recent progress in the design and fabrication of visible light-responsive photocatalysts via various synthetic strategies, including the modification of traditional photocatalysts by doping, dye sensitization, or by forming a heterostructure, coupled with π-conjugated architecture, as well as the great efforts made within the exploration of novel visible light-responsive photocatalysts. Background information on the fundamentals of heterogeneous photocatalysis, the pathways of visible light-responsive photocatalysis, and the unique features of visible light-responsive photocatalysts are presented. The photocatalytic properties of the resulting visible light-responsive photocatalysts are also covered in relation to the water treatment, i.e., regarding the photocatalytic degradation of organic compounds and inorganic pollutants, as well as photocatalytic disinfection. Finally, this review concludes with a summary and perspectives on the current challenges faced and new directions in this emerging area of research.

Shape-controlled synthesis of BiVO4 hierarchical structures with unique natural-sunlight-driven photocatalytic activity

Abstract: A detailed study on the shape control of bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) hierarchical structures and on their corresponding natural sunlight-driven photocatalytic activities was performed. We have developed a time-saving, cost-effective, surfactant-free approach for the controlled synthesis of uniform monoclinic scheelite BiVO4 hierarchical structures, obtaining diverse BiVO4 architectures including peanuts, dumbbells, flowers, spheres, olives, and rod-sheaves, via facile pH-dictated solvothermal routes with the aid of either NH3·H2O or NaOH. The influences of the morphologies of the synthesized BiVO4 hierarchical structures on the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) have been investigated, indicating that the enhanced photocatalytic performances were neither related to the surface area values nor the aspect ratios of the fabricated photocatalysts, but associated with the unique shaped configurations produced under specific low temperature hydrothermal conditions. The effects of the active species involved in the photocatalytic process and the cycle-stability of the prepared BiVO4 photocatalysts have also been examined.

Recent developments in heterogeneous photocatalytic water treatment using visible light-responsive photocatalysts: a review

Abstract: Visible light-responsive photocatalytic technology holds great potential in water treatment to enhance purification efficiency, as well as to augment water supply through the safe usage of unconventional water sources. This review summarizes the recent progress in the design and fabrication of visible light-responsive photocatalysts via various synthetic strategies, including the modification of traditional photocatalysts by doping, dye sensitization, or by forming a heterostructure, coupled with π-conjugated architecture, as well as the great efforts made within the exploration of novel visible light-responsive photocatalysts. Background information on the fundamentals of heterogeneous photocatalysis, the pathways of visible light-responsive photocatalysis, and the unique features of visible light-responsive photocatalysts are presented. The photocatalytic properties of the resulting visible light-responsive photocatalysts are also covered in relation to the water treatment, i.e., regarding the photocatalytic degradation of organic compounds and inorganic pollutants, as well as photocatalytic disinfection. Finally, this review concludes with a summary and perspectives on the current challenges faced and new directions in this emerging area of research.

Rapid water disinfection using vertically aligned MoS2 nanofilms and visible light

Abstract: Few-layered, vertically aligned MoS2 films can efficiently harvest visible light for photocatalytic water disinfection, allowing >99.999% bacteria to be rapidly inactivated.

In situ assembly of BiOI@Bi12O17Cl2 p-n junction: charge induced unique front-lateral surfaces coupling heterostructure with high exposure of BiOI {001} active facets for robust and nonselective photocatalysis

Abstract: Synthesis of reactive exposing facets and p-n junction are of great importance for semiconductor photocatalysis. Herein, we develop a p-n junction BiOI@Bi12O17Cl2 heterostructure via facilely in situ depositing BiOI nanosheets on the surface of Bi12O17Cl2 plates. Owing to the charge inducement, the BiOI nanosheets are all vertically assembled onto the Bi12O17Cl2 large plates to form a unique front-lateral surfaces coupling heterostructure, which enables high exposure of {001} reactive exposing facets of BiOI. The photocatalytic properties are systematically evaluated by degrading multiform industrial contaminants and antibiotic, like 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP), rhodamine B (RhB), phenol, bisphenol A (BPA), and tetracycline hydrochloride. It reveals that the BiOI@Bi12O17Cl2 heterostructure not only shows dramatically strengthened photocatalytic activity, but also unfold powerful and nonselective photooxidation ability under visible-light illumination. The photoelectrochemical characterizations demonstrated that the drastically promoted separation and transfer of charge carriers that derived from the benefits of BiOI {001} active facets and BiOI@Bi12O17Cl2 p-n junction are in charge of the high photo-activity. Detailed radicals detection and quantification experiments further corroborate our conclusions. The study may give us some new hints on designing novel heterostructured photoelectronic materials with integrating p-n junction and active exposing facets.

Emerging opportunities for nanotechnology to enhance water security

Abstract: No other resource is as necessary for life as water, and providing it universally in a safe, reliable and affordable manner is one of the greatest challenges of the twenty-first century. Here, we consider new opportunities and approaches for the application of nanotechnology to enhance the efficiency and affordability of water treatment and wastewater reuse. Potential development and implementation barriers are discussed along with research needs to overcome them and enhance water security. This Perspective provides an overview of the potential aspects of water treatment and cleaning in which nanotechnology could play an important role.