Gallium and indium nanomaterials for environmental protection

Abstract

Recent advances in preparation and use of gallium and indium nanoparticles and nanocomposites are briefly presented. The following applications of the obtained materials are outlined: (i) Preparation of sensors for measuring in air of gaseous pollutants (carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, ozone, hydrogen), vapours of volatile organic compounds (methanol, ethanol, butanol, acetone, liquefied petroleum gas), and humidity, including the basics of the sensing mechanism; (ii) removal of water pollutants by photocatalysis and/or adsorption. Finally, conclusions are drawn about the potential of gallium and indium nanoparticles and nanocomposites and the further studies needed to achieve the implementation of these materials in the real life.