New graphene-based nanocomposite for photocatalysis

Graphene and its derivatives have received extensive attention of the scientific community to resolve energy renovation and environmental pollution-related issues. Graphene and its derivatives have extraordinary properties such as a unique atom-thick, two-dimensional structure; high surface area; exceptional conductivity; high electron mobility; anticorrosion ability; photosensitivity; and excellent chemical stability, which provides a route for an efficient and effective photocatalyst. Also, graphene-based composites offer enhanced adsorption, effective photoinduced charge separation, and an extended light-absorption range. Accordingly, it emerged as a versatile photocatalyst for the degradation of a variety of organic pollutants, H 2 production via water-splitting, and CO 2 reduction. Different methods such as solvothermal, hydrothermal, wet impregnation, combustion method, electrochemical techniques, photochemical reactions, and physical deposition have been used to fabricate potential graphene-based photocatalysts. Different derivatives of graphene, including graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, have been explored to prepare graphene-based photocatalysts. This chapter summarizes the recent developments in graphene-based photocatalysts, specifically different approaches to improve the photocatalytic efficiency of graphene and its derivative-based materials for organic pollutant degradation, H 2 production, and CO 2 reduction.