The state-of-the-art review on rational design for cavitation assisted photocatalysis

Ultrasound induced cavitation effects can dramatically affect physicochemical performance in photocatalysis as a result of enhanced mass transfer and the formation of highly active radicals under localized high temperature and pressure. The use of ultrasound facilitates a systematic control of photo-generated carrier properties within a nanostructured framework. Considerable research efforts have been directed at developing methodologies for the design of nanostructures with a high degree of precision. We provide a comprehensive overview of rational strategies in the sonochemical synthesis of photocatalysts and address the viability of controlling catalyst structural features. Research progress in sono-photocatalysis and piezo-photocatalysis is assessed, focusing on the integration of cavitation phenomena and artificial nanostructures in terms of practical application. Moreover, we evaluate current technologies used in quantitative analysis as a means of understanding the underlying mechanisms and evaluating catalyst properties predictably and reproducibly. Finally, we provide some insight into the possibilities, limitations and perspectives in this field.