Ferrite bismuth-based nanomaterials: From ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties to nanomedicine applications

Bismuth ferrite (BiFeO₃), a perovskite-type oxide, possesses unique morphology and multiferroicity, rendering it highly versatile for various applications. Recent investigations have demonstrated that BiFeO₃ exhibits enhanced Fenton-like and photocatalytic behaviors, coupled with its piezoelectric/ferroelectric properties. BiFeO₃ can catalytically generate highly oxidative reactive oxygen species (ROS) when exposed to hydrogen peroxide or light irradiation. Consequently, bismuth ferrite-based nanomaterials have emerged as promising candidates for various biomedical applications. However, the precise fabrication of BiFeO₃-based materials with controllable features and applications in diverse biomedical scenarios remains a formidable challenge. In this review, we initially summarize the Fenton reaction property, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties of BiFeO₃. We further survey the current methodologies for synthesizing BiFeO₃ nanomaterials with diverse morphologies. Subsequently, we explore the effects of element doping and heterojunction formation on enhancing the photocatalytic activity of BiFeO₃, focusing on microstructural, electronic band structure, and modification approaches. Additionally, we provide an overview of the recent advancements of BiFeO₃-based nanomaterials in biomedicine. Finally, we discuss the prevailing obstacles and prospects of BiFeO₃ for biomedical applications, offering valuable insights and recommendations for forthcoming research endeavors.