Graphene and Cerium Oxide Nanocomposites: Pioneering Photocatalysts for Organic Dye Degradation from Wastewater

The pressing need to enhance the efficiency of wastewater treatment is underscored by the significant threat that water pollution poses to human health and environmental stability. Among current remediation techniques, photocatalysis has emerged as a promising approach due to its reliance on advanced material properties. Cerium oxide’s tunable bandgap and defect engineering, combined with graphene’s high surface area, conductivity, and functionalization, synergistically enhance photocatalytic performance. This makes CeO2-graphene composites highly promising for environmental remediation applications. This review paper systematically examines water pollution challenges and evaluates existing treatment methodologies, with a particular emphasis on CeO2-based photocatalysts modified with graphene and its derivatives, such as graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). These composites demonstrate potential for superior photocatalytic performance and reactor design. Key issues, including environmental impact, stability, reusability, and compatibility of these materials with evolving technologies, are thoroughly discussed. Additionally, considerations for scaling production and commercializing these composites are addressed, suggesting avenues for future research and industrial applications. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the synergistic effects of CeO2 and graphene-based materials, opening new possibilities for advanced clean water treatment technologies.