The promising NIR light-driven MO3-x (M = Mo, W) photocatalysts for energy conversion and environmental remediation

The effective utilization of near-infrared (NIR) light for energy conversion and environmental remediation has been considered as a promising approach to alleviate energy shortage and environmental pollution. The plasmonic MoO3-x and WO3-x (MO3-x (M = Mo, W)) show tremendous potential in the utilization of NIR light owing to their localized surface plasmon resonance effect (LSPR). In consequence, MO3-x (M = Mo, W) are considered to be promising NIR light-driven catalysts. In addition, MO3-x (M = Mo, W) also hold other outstanding advantages, such as high carrier mobility, low cost, low toxicity, good stability, and easy preparation, which make them show great potential in the field of photocatalysis. In this work, various synthetic methods for MO3-x (M = Mo, W) photocatalysts are summarized for the first time. Then, the modifications to further strengthen light absorption, accelerate charge transfer, and promote surface catalytic reaction are discussed. Subsequently, the applications of NIR light-driven MO3-x (M = Mo, W) photocatalysts in energy conversion and environmental remediation are reviewed. Finally, the development prospect and primary challenge of MO3-x (M = Mo, W) based materials in future research are discussed. This work aims at providing a comprehensive understanding of NIR light-driven MO3-x (M = Mo, W) in term of synthesis, modification, and application, thereby further promoting their development.