Hetero-nanostructured suspended photocatalysts for solar-to-fuel conversion

Converting solar energy into valuable hydrogen and hydrocarbon fuels through photocatalytic water splitting and CO₂ photo-reduction is highly promising in addressing the growing demand for renewable and clean energy resources. Developing efficient photocatalysts for solar-driven H₂ production and CO₂ reduction is the most essential part in achieving this goal. For the purpose of attaining high photocatalytic efficiency, hetero-nanostructures formed by multiple material components have been demonstrated as an effective strategy. Within this heterostructure, its interface is a critical consideration, whereby it determines the principle of charge transfer across the heterojunctions and consequent surface reactions. This article reviews the recent developments of hetero-nanostructures for photocatalytic H₂ production and CO₂ reduction based on material compositions that form heterojunctions.