Use of Natural Zeolite Clinoptilolite in the Preparation of Photocatalysts and Its Role in Photocatalytic Activity

Abstract

The use of natural zeolite clinoptilolite in preparing photocatalysts and its function in photocatalysis are discussed in this review. The importance of advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) and the potential of heterogeneous photocatalysis in removing environmental pollutants are emphasized. The review focuses on the synergistic effects of clinoptilolite with semiconductors (TiO2, ZnO, CuO, SnO2, and NiO) to prepare stable and active photocatalysts, highlighting recent advancements in this field. It explores clinoptilolite’s structural characteristics, highlighting its microporous nature, adaptable framework, and improved textural properties due to acid and alkali treatments. Particle size, crystal phase, and calcination temperature are three key synthesis parameters that affect photocatalytic activity and are highlighted in the discussion of these parameters and their methods. A discussion is held regarding the processes and mechanisms of photocatalytic degradation of different organic compounds under varying irradiation conditions, including UV, visible, and ambient sunlight. Clinoptilolite is vital in improving supported semiconductor oxides’ photocatalytic efficiencies, which aid in pollutant degradation and environmental remediation.