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Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant...
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Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal

A special issue of Catalysts (ISSN 2073-4344). This special issue belongs to the section "Electrocatalysis".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 October 2023) | Viewed by 48888

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Ki Tae Park

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Chemical Engineering, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
Interests: electrocatalysis; electrocatalysts; fuel cell; CO2 conversion; carbon capture utilization (CCU)
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Chang-Tang Chang

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Environmental Engineering, National I-Lan University, Yilan 260007, Taiwan
Interests: application and development of catalyst and photocatalyst; air quality and water quality assessment; control and measurement of nanoparticle and surface studies
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Wonhee Lee

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Climate Change Research Division, Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER), 152 Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34129, Republic of Korea
Interests: electrochemical CO2 conversion; novel electrochemical systems for CO2 conversion; electrochemical CO2 conversion mechanism; heterogeneous electrocatalysis; chlor-alkali process; oxygen reduction reaction (ORR); CO2 mineralization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Electrocatalysis/photocatalysis are the acceleration of electroreactions/photoreactions by heterogeneous electrocatalysts/photocatalysts to produce valuable chemicals or to decompose harmful materials. These methods can provide various approaches to alleviate serious environmental problems. Above all, electrocatalysis/photocatalysis have been considered as promising strategies for CO2-derived chemical and H2 production, which could reduce the greenhouse gas emission and produce the alternative green fuel. Global warming induced by the release of CO2 and other greenhouse gases has led to climate change, melting of icebergs, and sea-level rise, which threatens human life and disturbs the ecosystem. CO2 is the inevitable product as a result of fossil fuel consumption and occupies more than 70% of the total amount of greenhouse gases. To alleviate the environmental problem, efficient catalytic processes for CO2 conversion or alternative green fuel production have to be studied and developed. Utilization of electricity or solar energy as sources for catalysis provides encouraging approaches to produce fuels and chemicals from carbon-based sources as well as H2. The electrocatalytic/photocatalytic conversion of CO2 can be the more environmentally friendly approach for production of the CO2-derived chemicals, such as formic acid, carbon monoxide, syngas, ethylene, various alcohols, and organic acids. In addition, H2 production by water splitting is one of the prominent methodologies which has been carried out for past few decades. Not only the production of the chemicals and fuels, but also the decomposition of harmful organic pollutants can be achieved by electrocatalysis/photocatalysis. These are the promising technologies which improve the indoor air quality or degrade water pollutants.

This Special Issue will provide information about novel advanced electrocatalysts/photocatalysts for efficient CO2 conversion, H2 production, and pollutant removal. Thus, we welcome the papers focusing on the diverse synthesis methods and novel designs of crystal structures for the electrocatalysts/photocatalysts to improve their electrochemical/photochemical performance with high stability, as well as theoretical reaction mechanisms at the molecular level occurring on the well-designed catalytic surfaces. We encourage the submission of all types of papers including communications, research and review papers, covering all the topics of innovative electrocatalysts/photocatalysts and their environmental applications.

Prof. Dr. Ki Tae Park
Prof. Dr. Chang-Tang Chang
Dr. Wonhee Lee
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Catalysts is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

  • Electrocatalysis
  • Photocatalysis
  • Photoelectrocatalysis
  • Electrocatalyst
  • Photocatalyst
  • Carbon dioxide conversion
  • Carbon capture and utilization (CCU)
  • Hydrogen production
  • Pollutant Removal

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 2927 KiB  
Article
Constructing Stable MoOx-NiSx Film via Electrodeposition and Hydrothermal Method for Water Splitting
by Shihu Zhu, Tiantian Liu, Shuang Yu, Huijing Yang, Qimeng Sun and Jin You Zheng
Catalysts 2023, 13(11), 1426; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13111426 - 9 Nov 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1452
Abstract
The hydrothermal method is a frequently used approach for synthesizing HER electrocatalysts. However, a weak tolerance to high temperature is an intrinsic property of carbon cloth (CC) in most situations, and CC-based catalysts, which require complex technological processes in low-temperature environments, exhibit weak [...] Read more.
The hydrothermal method is a frequently used approach for synthesizing HER electrocatalysts. However, a weak tolerance to high temperature is an intrinsic property of carbon cloth (CC) in most situations, and CC-based catalysts, which require complex technological processes in low-temperature environments, exhibit weak stability and electrochemical performance. Hence, we provide a new solution for these issues. In this work, MoO3-NiSx films of 9H5E-CC catalysts are synthesized, first through electrodeposition to form Ni particles on CC and then through a hydrothermal reaction to reform the reaction. The advantages of this synthetic process include mild reaction conditions and convenient operation. The obtained MoO3-NiSx film presents excellent catalytic activity and stability for HER. MoO3-NiSx film requires only a low overpotential of 142 mV to drive 10 mA cm−2 for HER in 1.0 m KOH, and the obtained 9H5E-CF film only needs 294 mV to achieve 50 mA cm−2 for OER. Remarkably, they also show excellent OER, HER, and full water splitting long-term electrochemical stability, maintaining their performance for at least 72 h. This work can be expanded to provide a new strategy for the fabrication of stable, high-performing electrodes using simple, mild reaction conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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16 pages, 4891 KiB  
Article
S–Modified MXene as a Catalyst for Accelerated Tetracycline Hydrochloride Electrocatalytic Degradation via ·OH and Active Chlorine Triggering Promotion
by Fan Zhang, Zhi Huang, Yan-Ying Liu, Qian Zhang and Chang-Tang Chang
Catalysts 2023, 13(9), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13091237 - 25 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1260
Abstract
S–modified MXene (Ti3C2Tx@S–5) was prepared to improve the catalytic activity of MXene in the electrocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC). Here, S groups in the form of Ti–S and S–O species were anchored onto MXene, resulting in [...] Read more.
S–modified MXene (Ti3C2Tx@S–5) was prepared to improve the catalytic activity of MXene in the electrocatalytic degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC). Here, S groups in the form of Ti–S and S–O species were anchored onto MXene, resulting in superior conductivity and surface activity. Ti3C2Tx@S–5 exhibited an excellent performance of 100% TC degradation under the conditions of 25 °C, a pH of 6, a TC concentration of 10 mg L−1, and an applied current of 20 mA. Radical quenching and EPR analyses revealed that ·O2− and 1O2 played dominant roles in Ti3C2Tx@S–5 and Ti3C2Tx systems. Furthermore, S modification promoted the triggering of ·OH and active chlorine, which contributed to the acceleration of TC degradation. The involvement of these active substances in degradation pathways was further proven. This research advances the S modification of MXene and improves TC degradation by promoting the triggering of ·OH and active chlorine, broadening the applicability of MXene material. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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20 pages, 5361 KiB  
Article
Facile Synthesis of Metal-Impregnated Sugarcane-Derived Catalytic Biochar for Ozone Removal at Ambient Temperature
by Reginald A. Verdida, Alvin R. Caparanga and Chang-Tang Chang
Catalysts 2023, 13(2), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13020388 - 10 Feb 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2348
Abstract
This study presents the first attempt at employing catalytic biochar to remove ground-level ozone at ambient temperature. With the increase in human activity, ozone has become a critical inorganic pollutant that needs to be addressed, using more sustainable methods. Fe- and Mn-impregnated catalytic [...] Read more.
This study presents the first attempt at employing catalytic biochar to remove ground-level ozone at ambient temperature. With the increase in human activity, ozone has become a critical inorganic pollutant that needs to be addressed, using more sustainable methods. Fe- and Mn-impregnated catalytic biochars were prepared from a sugarcane feedstock via the wet impregnation method and pyrolysis at various temperatures, where the optimum value was determined to be 550 °C. The metal-impregnated biochar samples demonstrated enhanced surface areas and pore volumes compared with the pristine biochar (SCB550), resulting in improved ozone-adsorption capacity. SCB550-Fe exhibited an ozone-adsorption capacity of 52.1 mg/g at 20 ppm, which was approximately four times higher than that of SCB550. SCB550-Fe demonstrated superior ozone-removal performance compared to SCB550-Mn; 122 mg/g capacity as opposed to 116.2 mg/g at 80 ppm, respectively. Isothermal and kinetic modeling are also presented to suggest a plausible mechanism of ozone removal by catalytic biochar. This includes physical adsorption, complexation, electrostatic interaction, and electron transfer during the redox reaction between ozone and metals. Overall, this study should provide preliminary insights into ozone removal using biochar and promote further research regarding material optimization and kinetic studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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13 pages, 4795 KiB  
Article
Ultrasonic Preparation of PN for the Photodegradation of 17β-Estradiol in Water and Biotoxicity Assessment of 17β-Estradiol after Degradation
by Kun Meng, Kefu Zhou and Chang-Tang Chang
Catalysts 2023, 13(2), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13020332 - 2 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1408
Abstract
This study prepares a novel phosphorene (PN) and loads it onto TiO2 to fabricate PN-TiO2 and effectively photodegrade the hydrophobic environmental hormone 17β-estradiol in aqueous solutions. The effect of the PN on degradation efficiency is systematically investigated. It is observed that [...] Read more.
This study prepares a novel phosphorene (PN) and loads it onto TiO2 to fabricate PN-TiO2 and effectively photodegrade the hydrophobic environmental hormone 17β-estradiol in aqueous solutions. The effect of the PN on degradation efficiency is systematically investigated. It is observed that the doping of TiO2 with PN significantly enhances its photocatalytic and adsorption properties compared with that in the absence of PN; that is, the addition improves the adsorption capability of the composite. The optimal PN weight content is found to be 0.5%. The performance of the PN-TiO2 photocatalyst in degrading E2 is around 67.5%. However, its photodegradation efficiency gradually decreases when the PN content is further increased. This optimal PN content directly suggests synergistic interactions affecting the photodegrading efficiency. Compared with other PN-based photocatalysts mentioned in the literature, this PN-based material possesses striking advantages, such as higher energy efficiency, greater removal capacity, and superior cost-effectiveness. Further, the decrease in the biotoxicity of the water after treatment is evident in observing the development of zebrafish embryos. The studies of the catalyst performed on the zebrafish show that it results in a higher mortality rate at 96 h with a superior hatching rate and healthy fish development. In summary, the prepared PN-based materials exhibited promising photocatalytic capabilities for the removal and biotoxicity reduction of 17β-estradiol in aqueous solutions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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20 pages, 6635 KiB  
Article
Constructing g-C3N4/Cd1−xZnxS-Based Heterostructures for Efficient Hydrogen Production under Visible Light
by Angelina V. Zhurenok, Dina V. Markovskaya, Evgeny Y. Gerasimov, Alexander S. Vokhmintsev, Ilya A. Weinstein, Igor P. Prosvirin, Svetlana V. Cherepanova, Andrey V. Bukhtiyarov and Ekaterina A. Kozlova
Catalysts 2021, 11(11), 1340; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal11111340 - 6 Nov 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2095
Abstract
Two types of photocatalysts, 1%Pt/Cd1−xZnxS/g-C3N4 (x = 0.2–0.3) and Cd1−xZnxS/1%Pt/g-C3N4 (x = 0.2–0.3), were synthesized by varying the deposition order of platinum, and a solid solution of cadmium and [...] Read more.
Two types of photocatalysts, 1%Pt/Cd1−xZnxS/g-C3N4 (x = 0.2–0.3) and Cd1−xZnxS/1%Pt/g-C3N4 (x = 0.2–0.3), were synthesized by varying the deposition order of platinum, and a solid solution of cadmium and zinc sulfides onto the surface of g-C3N4. The characterization of photocatalysts showed that, for 1%Pt/Cd1−xZnxS/g-C3N4, small platinum particles were deposited onto a solid solution of cadmium and zinc sulfides; in the case of Cd1−xZnxS/1%Pt/g-C3N4, enlarged platinum clusters were located on the surface of graphitic carbon nitride. Based on the structure of the photocatalysts, we assumed that, in the first case, type II heterojunctions and, in the latter case, S-scheme heterojunctions were realized. The activity of the synthesized samples was tested in hydrogen evolution from triethanolamine (TEOA) basic solution under visible light (λ = 450 nm). A remarkable increase in hydrogen evolution rate compared to single-phase platinized 1%Pt/Cd1−xZnxS photocatalysts was observed only in the case of ternary photocatalysts with platinum located on the g-C3N4 surface, Cd1−xZnxS/1%Pt/g-C3N4. Thus, we proved using kinetic experiments and characterization techniques that, for composite photocatalysts based on Cd1−xZnxS and g-C3N4, the formation of the S-scheme mechanism is more favorable than that for type II heterojunction. The highest activity, 2.5 mmol H2 g−1 h−1, with an apparent quantum efficiency equal to 6.0% at a wavelength of 450 nm was achieved by sample 20% Cd0.8Zn0.2S/1% Pt/g-C3N4. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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17 pages, 4734 KiB  
Article
Facile Synthesis of Tin Dioxide Nanoparticles for Photocatalytic Degradation of Congo Red Dye in Aqueous Solution
by Chih Ming Ma, Gui Bing Hong and Shang Chieh Lee
Catalysts 2020, 10(7), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10070792 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 3886
Abstract
This research work reports an approach used to prepare a SnO2 photocatalyst by precipitation and calcination pathways and describes an investigation of the effects of preparation parameters on SnO2 yield. The SnO2 photocatalyst was further used for the photocatalytic degradation [...] Read more.
This research work reports an approach used to prepare a SnO2 photocatalyst by precipitation and calcination pathways and describes an investigation of the effects of preparation parameters on SnO2 yield. The SnO2 photocatalyst was further used for the photocatalytic degradation of Congo red (CR) dye, and the removal efficiency was optimized using response surface methodology. The results indicate that the SnO2 photocatalyst yield was the highest in 0.05 M of the precursor, stannous chloride and 28 wt % ammonia as the precipitant, pH 10, at 30 °C. The transmission electron microscopy results of the SnO2 photocatalyst illustrate that the average particle size was mainly around 30–50 nm and had a solid spherical shape. The X-ray diffraction results reveal that the prepared sample had a highly crystalline SnO2 rutile crystal structure. The prediction and experimental results of the Response surface methodology (RSM) indicate that, when the reaction time was 97 min, the operating temperature was 47 °C, the photocatalyst dosage was 751 mg/L, and the optimal degradation rate of the CR dye was 100%. After five consecutive photodegradation reactions, the degradation rate remained at 100%. The results demonstrated that the SnO2 photocatalyst prepared in this study possesses excellent reusability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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11 pages, 3985 KiB  
Article
Photocatalytic Performance of NiO/NiTiO3 Composite Nanofiber Films
by Bozhi Yang, Xuefeng Bai, Jiaxuan Wang, Minghao Fang, Xiaowen Wu, Yan’gai Liu, Zhaohui Huang, Cheng-Yen Lao and Xin Min
Catalysts 2019, 9(6), 561; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal9060561 - 24 Jun 2019
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4893
Abstract
Photocatalytic degradation of pollutants is one of the cleanest technologies for environmental remediation. Herein, we prepared NiO/NiTiO3 heterostructure nanofiber (200 nm) films by electrospinning and high temperature heat treatment, using nickel acetate and tetrabutyltitanate as nickel and titanium sources, respectively. The NiO/NiTiO [...] Read more.
Photocatalytic degradation of pollutants is one of the cleanest technologies for environmental remediation. Herein, we prepared NiO/NiTiO3 heterostructure nanofiber (200 nm) films by electrospinning and high temperature heat treatment, using nickel acetate and tetrabutyltitanate as nickel and titanium sources, respectively. The NiO/NiTiO3 heterostructure has advantages of good photodegradation rate constant and stability. By controlling the temperature, we can optimize the phase composition of these nanofibers for better photocatalytic performance. Based on our findings of the Rhodamine B degradation results, the best performance was obtained with 10% NiO and 90% NiTiO3; 92.9% of the Rhodamine B (5 mg/L) was degraded after reaction under full spectrum irradiation for 60 min. More importantly, the repeating test showed that these nanofiber films can remain active and stable after multiple cycles. The mechanisms of the photocatalysis reactions were also discussed. This demonstration provides a guideline in designing a new photocatalyst that we hope will serve the environmental needs for this and the coming century. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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Review

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17 pages, 4181 KiB  
Review
Recent Progress in Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Pure Formic Acid Using a Solid-State Electrolyte Device
by Yeomin Kang, Taekyung Kim, Koo Young Jung and Ki Tae Park
Catalysts 2023, 13(6), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13060955 - 31 May 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6182
Abstract
The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) to formic acid has gained significant attention as a potential environmentally friendly approach to reducing CO2 emissions and producing carbon-neutral liquid fuels. However, several challenges must be addressed to achieve the production of [...] Read more.
The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) to formic acid has gained significant attention as a potential environmentally friendly approach to reducing CO2 emissions and producing carbon-neutral liquid fuels. However, several challenges must be addressed to achieve the production of high-purity and high-concentration formic acid through CO2RR. One major challenge is the formation of a formate mixture instead of pure formic acid in conventional reactors. This requires costly downstream purification and concentration processes to obtain pure formic acid. To overcome this problem, a three-compartment reactor design has been proposed where a solid-state electrolyte (SSE) is inserted between the anode and cathode compartments to recover pure formic acid directly. This reactor design involves the use of an anion exchange membrane (AEM) and a cation exchange membrane (CEM) to separate the anode and cathode compartments, and a center compartment filled with high-conductivity SSE to minimize ohmic resistance. Several studies have implemented this reactor design for continuous CO2RR and have reported remarkable improvements in the concentration and purity of the formic acid product. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of the SSE reactor design for CO2RR to produce pure formic acid (HCOOH) and propose further research to scale up this technology for industrial-scale applications in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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22 pages, 6698 KiB  
Review
Recent Progress in Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2
by Chaojun Ren, Wei Ni and Hongda Li
Catalysts 2023, 13(4), 644; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal13040644 - 23 Mar 2023
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5368
Abstract
A stable life support system in the spacecraft can greatly promote long-duration, far-distance, and multicrew manned space flight. Therefore, controlling the concentration of CO2 in the spacecraft is the main task in the regeneration system. The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction can effectively [...] Read more.
A stable life support system in the spacecraft can greatly promote long-duration, far-distance, and multicrew manned space flight. Therefore, controlling the concentration of CO2 in the spacecraft is the main task in the regeneration system. The electrocatalytic CO2 reduction can effectively treat the CO2 generated by human metabolism. This technology has potential application value and good development prospect in the utilization of CO2 in the space station. In this paper, recent research progress for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 was reviewed. Although numerous promising accomplishments have been achieved in this field, substantial advances in electrocatalyst, electrolyte, and reactor design are yet needed for CO2 utilization via an electrochemical conversion route. Here, we summarize the related works in the fields to address the challenge technology that can help to promote the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction. Finally, we present the prospective opinions in the areas of the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction, especially for the space station and spacecraft life support system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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67 pages, 12990 KiB  
Review
From CO2 to Value-Added Products: A Review about Carbon-Based Materials for Electro-Chemical CO2 Conversion
by Lilian D. Ramírez-Valencia, Esther Bailón-García, Francisco Carrasco-Marín and Agustín F. Pérez-Cadenas
Catalysts 2021, 11(3), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal11030351 - 9 Mar 2021
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 8556
Abstract
The global warming and the dangerous climate change arising from the massive emission of CO2 from the burning of fossil fuels have motivated the search for alternative clean and sustainable energy sources. However, the industrial development and population necessities make the decoupling [...] Read more.
The global warming and the dangerous climate change arising from the massive emission of CO2 from the burning of fossil fuels have motivated the search for alternative clean and sustainable energy sources. However, the industrial development and population necessities make the decoupling of economic growth from fossil fuels unimaginable and, consequently, the capture and conversion of CO2 to fuels seems to be, nowadays, one of the most promising and attractive solutions in a world with high energy demand. In this respect, the electrochemical CO2 conversion using renewable electricity provides a promising solution. However, faradaic efficiency of common electro-catalysts is low, and therefore, the design of highly selective, energy-efficient, and cost-effective electrocatalysts is critical. Carbon-based materials present some advantages such as relatively low cost and renewability, excellent electrical conductivity, and tunable textural and chemical surface, which show them as competitive materials for the electro-reduction of CO2. In this review, an overview of the recent progress of carbon-based electro-catalysts in the conversion of CO2 to valuable products is presented, focusing on the role of the different carbon properties, which provides a useful understanding for the materials design progress in this field. Development opportunities and challenges in the field are also summarized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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18 pages, 3063 KiB  
Review
Hierarchical Ternary Sulfides as Effective Photocatalyst for Hydrogen Generation Through Water Splitting: A Review on the Performance of ZnIn2S4
by Ravichandran Janani, Raja Preethi V, Shubra Singh, Aishwarya Rani and Chang-Tang Chang
Catalysts 2021, 11(2), 277; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal11020277 - 19 Feb 2021
Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4624
Abstract
One of the major aspects and advantages of solar energy conversion is the photocatalytic hydrogen generation using semiconductor materials for an eco-friendly technology. Designing a low-cost efficient material to overcome limited light absorption as well as rapid recombination of photogenerated charge carriers is [...] Read more.
One of the major aspects and advantages of solar energy conversion is the photocatalytic hydrogen generation using semiconductor materials for an eco-friendly technology. Designing a low-cost efficient material to overcome limited light absorption as well as rapid recombination of photogenerated charge carriers is essential to achieve considerable hydrogen generation. In recent years, sulfide based semiconductors have attracted scientific research interest due to their excellent solar response and narrow band gap. The present review focuses on the recent approaches in the development of hierarchical ternary sulfide based photocatalysts with a special focus on ZnIn2S4. We also observe how the electronic structure of ZnIn2S4 is beneficial for water splitting and the various strategies involved for improving the material efficiency for photocatalytic hydrogen generation. The review places emphasis on the latest advancement/new insights on ZnIn2S4 being used as an efficient material for hydrogen generation through photocatalytic water splitting. Recent progress on essential aspects which govern light absorption, charge separation and transport are also discussed in detail. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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20 pages, 4361 KiB  
Review
Mimicking the Catalytic Center for the Water-Splitting Reaction in Photosystem II
by Yanxi Li, Ruoqing Yao, Yang Chen, Boran Xu, Changhui Chen and Chunxi Zhang
Catalysts 2020, 10(2), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal10020185 - 3 Feb 2020
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5107
Abstract
The oxygen-evolving center (OEC) in photosystem II (PSII) of plants, algae and cyanobacteria is a unique natural catalyst that splits water into electrons, protons and dioxygen. The crystallographic studies of PSII have revealed that the OEC is an asymmetric Mn4CaO5 [...] Read more.
The oxygen-evolving center (OEC) in photosystem II (PSII) of plants, algae and cyanobacteria is a unique natural catalyst that splits water into electrons, protons and dioxygen. The crystallographic studies of PSII have revealed that the OEC is an asymmetric Mn4CaO5-cluster. The understanding of the structure-function relationship of this natural Mn4CaO5-cluster is impeded mainly due to the complexity of the protein environment and lack of a rational chemical model as a reference. Although it has been a great challenge for chemists to synthesize the OEC in the laboratory, significant advances have been achieved recently. Different artificial complexes have been reported, especially a series of artificial Mn4CaO4-clusters that closely mimic both the geometric and electronic structures of the OEC in PSII, which provides a structurally well-defined chemical model to investigate the structure-function relationship of the natural Mn4CaO5-cluster. The deep investigations on this artificial Mn4CaO4-cluster could provide new insights into the mechanism of the water-splitting reaction in natural photosynthesis and may help the development of efficient catalysts for the water-splitting reaction in artificial photosynthesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrocatalysis/Photocatalysis for CO2 Conversion, H2 Production, and Pollutant Removal)
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