The role of polarization in photocatalysis

Semiconductor photocatalysis as a desirable technology shows huge potential in environmental remediation and renewable energy generation, but its efficiency is severely restricted by the rapid recombination of charge carriers in bulk phase and on the surface of photocatalysts. Polarization has emerged as one of the most effective strategies for conquering the above‐mentioned issues, tremendously promoting photocatalysis. Herein, this review summarizes the recent advances on improvement of photocatalytic activity by polarization promoted bulk and surface charge separation. We highlighted the recent progresses in charge separation advanced by different types of polarization, such as macroscopic polarization, piezoelectric polarization, ferroelectric polarization and surface polarization, and the related mechanisms. Finally, the strategies and challenges for polarization enhancement to further boost the charge separation and photocatalysis are discussed.

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