Author:
Jiao Keran,Zhang Hansong,Gao Xiaowu,Zhao Ziwei,Song Pengfei,Wang Yongjie
Abstract
Artificial photosynthesis, which could utilize renewable solar energy to produce fuels, e.g., hydrogen, syngas, methanol, and so on, is regarded as a prospective alternative to the global energy and environment crisis. Semiconductor-based photocatalysts play a key role in such solar-to-fuel conversions. In this chapter, we will review the recent demonstrations of advanced semiconductors used in solar water splitting and carbon dioxide reduction. The requirements for the physical and chemical properties of photocatalytic semiconductors are discussed to distinguish the potential candidates. The demonstrations of such advanced semiconductors successfully driving solar water splitting with hydrogen production and carbon dioxide reduction with hydrocarbon fuels are summarized. Moreover, current bottleneck issues, possible strategies, and perspectives are proposed at the end. This chapter will be an important reference for the research in artificial photosynthesis using emerging semiconductor materials.