Multi-element synergy in photocatalytic materials integrated mechanism-design-preparation strategies

Abstract Multi-element synergy has become an important strategy to enhance the performance of photocatalytic materials. In this study, an integrated ‘mechanism-element-preparation’ analytical framework has been constructed around three key aspects, namely, photocatalytic mechanism, element selection and material preparation, to systematically review the current progress of multi-element synergism in photocatalysis. The mechanisms to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency through heterogeneous structure construction, elemental doping and surface plasma effect are discussed, and typical preparation methods applicable to different elemental systems are summarized. It is emphasized that the precise regulation of elemental species, ratios and distributions, combined with the synergistic optimization of photocatalytic mechanism and preparation process, is the key path to achieve efficient photocatalytic performance. Finally, it is proposed that future research should focus on the quantitative analysis of the complex interactions between elements and the integrated design of low-cost materials, in order to promote the practical application of photocatalytic technology in the fields of environmental treatment and energy conversion.