A strategy to develop efficient Ag3PO4‐based photocatalytic materials toward water splitting: Perspectives and challenges

The escalating demands for energy sources and cumulative global environmental apprehensions have synergistically contributed to advancements in solar-driven technologies to utilize renewable energy resources. Photocatalytic water splitting, which is considered the most promising and sustainable process to harness solar energy for H ₂ and O ₂ evolution, is of particular interest. The photocatalytic performance of Ag ₃PO ₄ is attributed to its visible-light active 2.43 eV band gap energy, tunable facet crystal structure, and high thermal stability. The suitable valence band (+2.85 V) potential of Ag ₃PO ₄ is suggestive of its extraordinary oxidation capability. Herein, recent advances in preparation, characterization, and photocatalytic activity of silver orthophosphate (Ag ₃PO ₄) based photocatalytic materials for water splitting are reviewed. The well-suited synthesis methods and rational engineering aspects for eliminating the significant limitations of self-photocorrosion and minimum absorption in the solar spectrum are highlighted. The achievement of Ag ₃PO ₄-based photocatalytic materials in water splitting is elaborately discussed, with the main focus on heterostructure formation, facet morphology, and plasmonic phenomena. Besides, some vital accomplishments in bandgap modulation and attaining the required surface energy to achieve an attractive yield of H ₂ and O ₂ in the region of visible-light are also presented. Finally, a conclusive summary outlines this all-inclusive review with appropriate recommendations for photocatalytic water splitting to meeting a green approach shortly. We expect this comprehensive study could provide a guideline to tailor more efficient Ag ₃PO ₄-based photocatalytic materials with broad research prospects toward water splitting and other sustainable applications.