Upconversion optical nanomaterials applied for photocatalysis and photovoltaics: Recent advances and perspectives

• DOI: 10.1007/s11706-019-0482-z
• Publication Date: 2019-11-15T06:01:56Z
• Authors: Timur Sh. Atabaev; Anara Molkenova
• Keywords: Nanomaterials; Photon Upconversion

Upconversion (UC) lanthanide nanomaterials have attracted enormous attention in the last two decades thanks to their unique ability to convert low-energy infrared photons into high-energy photons. In this mini-review, we briefly discussed the recent achievements related to the direct utilization of UC optical nanomaterials for photocatalysis and photovoltaic applications. In particular, selected examples of UC-containing devices/nanocomposites with improved performance were covered. In addition, we outlined some challenges and future trends associated with the widespread usage of UC nanomaterials.