Accelerating the environmental applications of black phosphorus: A review

Since its rediscovery in 2014, layered black phosphorus (BP) has received extensive attention as a new two-dimensional semiconductor. BP is a promising material with properties of a large surface-to-volume ratio, wide light absorption range, tunable band gap, and high charge carrier mobility. These unique characteristics of BP make it a promising contender for various applications, particularly in the realm of environmental applications. This literature review provides a comprehensive discussion and overview of the latest developments in utilizing BP for environmental purposes. The review starts with the applications of BP in photocatalysis including photodegradation of refractory pollutants, H₂ evolution reaction (HER), and reduction of CO₂ and N₂. In the following section, Environmental electrocatalysis of HER and N₂ reduction reaction (NRR) is discussed. In addition, BP-based environmental sensing (detection of heavy metal ions, antibiotics, mycotoxins, NO_x) and eco-friendly halogen-free flame retardant are summarized as well. Finally, a thorough comprehension of the current state and potential future trends of BP-based nanomaterials for various environmental applications are presented.