Graphene composites in photocatalytic oxidation of aqueous organic contaminants – A state of art

Graphene is a single layer of graphite and highly promising allotrope of carbon that attracted significant research interest because of its unique structure and physicochemical properties. Graphene derivatives exhibit exceptional crystal and electronic properties and have already emerged as a photocatalytic material due to its higher surface area, charge transfer and adsorption capability. Graphene composites made up of graphene derivatives with conventional photocatalysts enhanced the performance of photocatalysis by extending the light absorption ability, photostability, pollutant adsorption, catalysis etc. and makes it a suitable material for water and wastewater treatment. In this review, the fundamental characteristics of graphene composites for photocatalytic enhancement, different preparation methods, its application in the treatment of recalcitrant organic compounds under UV and visible spectrum and the speculated mechanisms are discussed. A critical review on the reuse potential of graphene composites and its importance in practical application of photocatalysis are first of its kind. At every segment, the summary of significances, existing gaps, pathways and challenges and pathways to proceed forward are added. The current review helps in the cohesive understanding of the state of art in the research field of graphene-based photocatalysis. © 2020 Institution of Chemical Engineer