Advances in photocatalysis based on fullerene C60 and its derivatives: Properties, mechanism, synthesis, and applications

Fullerenes possess high chemical stability, large specific surface area, good electrical conductivity and unique three-dimensional structure. In this paper, we provide a general overview of the latest research results of fullerene-based photocatalysts. Firstly, the current status of semiconductor materials and fullerenes in photocatalytic applications are briefly introduced. Secondly, introduced action mechanisms of photocatalysts modified by fullerene C60 and its derivatives, including basic structure, exclusive properties and its effect in photocatalysis and material preparation process. Thirdly, factors affecting material effectiveness and the synthesis strategy of composite photocatalyst modified by fullerene are introduced. Meanwhile, the application advances of the photocatalysts are introduced, including in the degradation of pollutants, organic synthesis, hydrogen production, antibacterial and disinfection in water. Finally, the development trends of fullerenes and their derivatives in photocatalysis are also summarized, including theoretical calculations, the morphological structure control, stable derivatives and increase the selectivity, and new other types of fullerene materials.