Research progress of BaTiO₃ in piezo-photocatalysis: Synergistic mechanism, modification strategy and application

Piezo-photocatalysis utilizes the internal electric field generated by the piezoelectric effect to drive the efficient separation and migration of photogenerated charge carriers, thereby overcoming the inherent bottleneck of carrier recombination in traditional photocatalysis. This technology provides a highly promising solution for alleviating global energy shortages and environmental pollution issues. Owing to its outstanding piezoelectric response, excellent chemical stability, and environmental benignity, BaTiO₃ is recognized as one of the most promising materials in this field. In recent years, remarkable progress has been achieved in the modification strategies and application expansion of BaTiO₃-based piezo-photocatalysts. Based on the fundamental principles of piezo-photocatalysis, this review comprehensively summarizes the core modification strategies for BaTiO₃-based piezo-photocatalysts (including defect engineering, heterostructure construction, and metal loading) and elucidates their underlying regulatory mechanisms. Furthermore, the modulation laws of morphology control and mechanical energy excitation modes on the piezoelectric properties of BaTiO₃ are systematically investigated. Finally, we analyze the current challenges and future prospects of piezo-photocatalysis, aiming to provide a valuable reference for subsequent research in this field.