Scientific Sessions

Photocatalysis is a process in which a catalyst, typically a semiconductor material, absorbs light energy to drive chemical reactions. It offers a sustainable approach for solar energy conversion and environmental remediation by using abundant sunlight as a clean energy source. In solar energy applications, photocatalysts facilitate reactions such as water splitting for hydrogen production and CO2 reduction into fuels, contributing to renewable energy generation. Materials like titanium dioxide (TiO2), graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are widely explored for their high photoactivity, stability, and tunable band gaps.

In environmental applications, photocatalysis is employed to degrade pollutants, remove organic contaminants, and disinfect water and air, offering a green solution for pollution control. The mechanism involves photoexcitation of electrons, generation of reactive oxygen species, and subsequent oxidation or reduction of pollutants, resulting in efficient and complete degradation. Advances in nanostructured photocatalysts, hybrid systems, and plasmonic materials have enhanced light absorption, charge separation, and catalytic efficiency. Integration with solar reactors and environmental treatment systems allows scalable and sustainable applications. Overall, photocatalysis merges renewable energy utilization with environmental protection, making it a promising technology for addressing global energy and pollution challenges.