Piezoelectric Materials for Piezocatalysis and Piezo-Photocatalysis: Fundamentals, Mechanisms, Materials and Environmental Applications

Piezocatalysis and piezo-photocatalysis have emerged as promising approaches for environmental remediation by utilizing mechanical energy alone or in combination with light to drive redox reactions. This review systematically summarizes the fundamental principles and mechanisms of piezoelectricity, piezocatalysis, photocatalysis, and piezo-photocatalysis, with particular emphasis on charge separation and reactive species generation. Recent advances in piezoelectric materials, including conventional and emerging materials, transition-metal chalcogenides, perovskites, and layered bismuth-based materials, are discussed together with strategies for improving catalytic performance. Their applications in pollutant degradation, heavy-metal removal, water purification, disinfection, and microbial inactivation are further reviewed. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives related to material design, energy utilization, mechanistic understanding, stability, and practical application are highlighted. This review provides an integrated perspective on piezoelectric catalytic systems and their potential for sustainable environmental remediation.