Topics in Current Chemistry (2020) 378:3
1 3
1 Introduction
As defined in Green Chemistry: Theory and Practice by Anastas and Warner,
catalysis is one of the 12 design principles of green chemistry [1]. Sheldon et al.
highlight the paradigm shift in the concept of reaction efficiency, from one that is
focused on chemical yield, to one that assigns value to the minimization of waste
[2]. In addition, several concepts must be considered in effecting an efficient green
catalytic process. The energy consumed in a reaction and the sustainable character
of the catalytic materials are both usually analyzed as relevant issues [3].
Heterogeneous photocatalysis is a type of catalysis which refers to chemical
processes catalyzed by a solid where the external energy is ultraviolet, visible, or
infrared radiation. [4–14] It is a complex phenomenon but is typically schematically represented by the process described in the center of Fig. 1. As can be seen,
the photoexcited sample generates electrons and holes. Electrons and holes may
initiate a reductive and an oxidative reaction pathway, respectively. In addition, the
Fig. 1 Schematic representation of the potential applications of waste for the design of photocatalytic
materials
Reprinted from the journal
2
1 3
1 Introduction
As defined in Green Chemistry: Theory and Practice by Anastas and Warner,
catalysis is one of the 12 design principles of green chemistry [1]. Sheldon et al.
highlight the paradigm shift in the concept of reaction efficiency, from one that is
focused on chemical yield, to one that assigns value to the minimization of waste
[2]. In addition, several concepts must be considered in effecting an efficient green
catalytic process. The energy consumed in a reaction and the sustainable character
of the catalytic materials are both usually analyzed as relevant issues [3].
Heterogeneous photocatalysis is a type of catalysis which refers to chemical
processes catalyzed by a solid where the external energy is ultraviolet, visible, or
infrared radiation. [4–14] It is a complex phenomenon but is typically schematically represented by the process described in the center of Fig. 1. As can be seen,
the photoexcited sample generates electrons and holes. Electrons and holes may
initiate a reductive and an oxidative reaction pathway, respectively. In addition, the
Fig. 1 Schematic representation of the potential applications of waste for the design of photocatalytic
materials
Reprinted from the journal
2