Synthesis and electrochemical studies of WO3-based nanomaterials for environmental, energy and gas sensing applications

Abstract

The increase of pollutants in the environment and the rapid decrease of nonrenewable energy resources are putting immense pressure on ecosystems. Semiconductor oxides possess some unique properties that may provide a foundation for the development of advanced functional materials to address the pressing environmental and energy issues. Among various metal oxides, WO3 based nanomaterials with an array of morphologies and sizes can be employed in a wide range of applications, including photocatalysis, water splitting, environmental protection, solar energy, and electrochromic devices. In this review article, following a brief introduction of WO3 and WO3 based nanostructured materials, various synthesis methods used for their fabrication are described and compared. Further, their electrochemical, photoelectrochemical properties, and promising energy and environmental applications are addressed and highlighted.