Accessible New Non-Quantum Dot CsPbICl-Based Photocatalysts for Efficient Hole-Driven Photocatalytic Applications

Efficient, low-cost photocatalysts with mild synthesis conditions and stable photocatalytic behavior have always been the focus in the field of photocatalysis. This study proves that non-quantum-dot CsPbICl-based materials, created by a simple method, can be successfully employed as new high-efficient photocatalysts. The results demonstrate that two-dimensional CsPbICl perovskite can achieve over three times higher photocatalytic performance compared to three-dimensional CsPbBr perovskite. Moreover, the photocatalytic performance of CsPbICl can be further improved by constructing a heterojunction structure, such as CsPbICl/CsPbBr. CsPbICl can connect well with CsPbBr through a simple method, resulting in tight bonding at the interface and efficient carrier transfer. CsPbICl/CsPbBr exhibits notable 5-fold and 10-fold improvements in photocatalytic performance and rate compared to CsPbBr. Additionally, CsPbICl/CsPbBr demonstrates superb stable catalytic performance, with nearly no decrease in photocatalytic performance after 7 months (RH = 20% ± 10, T = 25 °C ± 5). This study also reveals that the photocatalytic process based on CsPbICl/CsPbBr can directly oxidize organic matter using holes, without relying on the generation of intermediate reactive oxygen species from water or oxygen (such as ·OH or ·O), showcasing further potential for achieving high photocatalytic efficiency and selectivity in anhydrous/anaerobic catalytic reactions and treating recalcitrant pollutants.