In recent years, the potential of photocatalysis for
environmental
purification and energy conversion has been gradually explored. However,
the limited light absorption and easy recombination ability of photogenerated
carriers limit its development. To promote the photocatalytic reaction,
the surface modification of photocatalytic materials is usually performed
to enhance the photocatalytic activity. This review first presents
the recent research progress of surface engineering strategies in
photocatalytic oxidation of elemental mercury. Then the mechanism
of surface engineering strategies to promote photocatalytic oxidation
of Hg0 reaction is analyzed at the level of energy band
structure, carrier separation, and molecular activation. Next, the
application of surface engineering strategies in photocatalysis is
described, including environmental purification and energy conversion.
Finally, future opportunities and challenges for the development
of photocatalysis are presented. This review can not only provide
scientific and theoretical guidance for the modification design of
photocatalytic materials but also provide strong support for the
preparation of photocatalysts for energy conversion and environmental
remediation.