Research Progress on the Synthesis of Nanostructured Photocatalysts and Their Environmental Applications

Due to their unique photocatalytic properties, nanostructured photocatalysts have shown broad prospects for application in environmental treatment. In recent years, researchers have significantly enhanced the photocatalytic charge separation efficiency and photocatalytic stability of photocatalysts by regulating semiconductor energy band structures, optimizing interface and surface properties, constructing heterogeneous structures, and introducing noble metal doping. This review systematically summarizes the basic principles, synthesis methods, and modification strategies of nanostructured photocatalysts and focuses on recent research advances in their environmental applications, such as water pollution control, air purification, and carbon dioxide reduction. Meanwhile, this review analyzes current challenges in the field, such as low quantum efficiency, insufficient stability, and limited industrialization, and outlines future development directions, including smart catalytic technology, fabrication of multifunctional composites, and large-scale synthesis, thereby providing a reference for research and application.