In this review, we systematically summarize the structure of CeO₂ and the common methods for the preparation of CeO₂-based composites, especially the co-precipitation method, template method and sol-gel method. In addition, we discuss the application of CeO₂-based composites in the field of photocatalysis, including CO₂ reduction, hydrogen production, pollutant degradation, selective organic reaction and nitrogen fixation.

Abstract

Photocatalysis has the advantages of practical, sustainable and environmental protection, so it plays a significant role in energy transformation and environmental utilization. CeO₂ has attracted widespread attention for its unique 4 f electrons, rich defect structures, high oxygen storage capacity and great chemical stability. In this paper, we review the structure of CeO₂ and the common methods for the preparation of CeO₂-based composites in the first part. In particular, we highlight the co-precipitation method, template method, and sol-gel method methods. Then, in the second part, we introduce the application of CeO₂-based composites in photocatalysis, including photocatalytic CO₂ reduction, hydrogen production, degradation, selective organic reaction, and photocatalytic nitrogen fixation. In addition, we discuss several modification techniques to improve the photocatalytic performance of CeO₂-based composites, such as elemental doping, defect engineering, constructing heterojunction and morphology regulation. Finally, the challenges faced by CeO₂-based composites are analyzed and their development prospects are prospected. This review provides a systematic summary of the recent advance of CeO₂-based composites in the field of photocatalysis, which can provide useful references for the rational design of efficient CeO₂-based composite photocatalysts for sustainable development.