Z-scheme single-atom photocatalyst for advanced oxidation processes

Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have attracted widespread interest due to their exceptional properties in heterogeneous catalysis. Recently, Z-scheme photocatalysts-based SACs are emerging as a versatile catalytic system for environmental applications. This review succinctly introduces the synthetic strategies for SAC-based Z-scheme photocatalysts and highlights their recent progress in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs). The applications of Z-scheme SAC-mediated AOPs in wastewater treatment are summarized, including photo-Fenton-like reactions, photocatalysis, and piezo-photocatalysis technologies. Additionally, the advantages of the Z-scheme heterojunction in photocatalysis and the corresponding Z-scheme charge-transfer mechanisms are discussed. This review offers valuable insights into the potential applications of SAC-based Z-scheme photocatalysts for environmental remediation and aims to inspire future research on advanced SACs.