Tungsten-based photocatalysts with UV–Vis–NIR photocatalytic capacity: progress and opportunity

Semiconductor photocatalysis is proven to be one of the potential approaches to solve energy crisis and environmental problems. Efficient solar energy utilization and superior charge carrier separation capacity are two crucial aspects in photocatalysis. Herein, the photocatalytic performances of the pristine and modified tungsten-based materials with mixed valence state are summarized concisely. The narrow band gap energy, coexistence of W5+/W6+ and the oxygen vacancies all contribute to the pristine tungsten-based photocatalysts with unique ultraviolet (UV), visible (Vis), and near-infrared (NIR) light-induced photocatalytic activities. Furthermore, the enhanced localized surface plasmonic resonance (LSPR) effect, improved charge carrier separation efficiency and prolonged charge carrier lifetime all boost the performances of modified tungsten-based heterojunction photocatalysts. Moreover, multifunctional tungsten-based photocatalysts with mixed valence state are established to realize the full utilization of solar energy authentically. Concluding perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the further exploration of tungsten-based photocatalysts are also presented.