Catalysts from Post-Consumer Batteries Waste for Photodegradation of Contaminants: A Systematic Analysis

Objective: The aim of this study was to perform a literature review about heterogeneous catalysts production from post-consumer batteries waste for application in contaminants degradation by heterogeneous photocatalysis, in order to determine the state of art and existing gaps on the subject. Theoretical Framework: Heterogeneous photocatalysis consists of a photoactivated chemical reaction in the presence of a solid semiconductor catalyst. In this process, alternative catalysts can be used, produced from waste such as post-consumer batteries, which have metals such as zinc and manganese in their composition. Method: Scopus and Web of Science databases were used to acquire articles which were filtered according to ProKnow-C (Knowledge Development Process - Constructivist) to obtain a bibliographic portfolio aligned with research topic, which was subjected to bibliometric and systematic analysis. Results and Discussion: Systematic analysis of the bibliographic portfolio enabled the identification of gaps regarding direct applications of electrolytic battery pastes without purification processes for the synthesis of catalysts and investigations of photocatalytic performances in real environmental matrices. Research Implications: It is suggested that future research prioritizes the production of catalysts using simplified methodologies, with the aim of saving resources and ensuring the sustainability of processes. Originality/Value: This study highlighted its innovative nature by applying the ProKnow-C method to reveal the main trends and existing gaps regarding the use of waste batteries as resources for environmental contaminant degradation.