Cu-Based Materials as Photocatalysts for Solar Light Artificial Photosynthesis: Aspects of Engineering Performance, Stability, Selectivity

Cu-oxide nanophases (CuO, Cu2O, Cu0) constitute highly potent nanoplatforms for the development of efficient Artificial Photosynthesis catalysts. The reducing conduction band edge d-electrons in Cu2O dictates its efficiency towards CO2 reduction under sunlight excitation. In present review, we discuss aspects interlinking stability photocorrosion (CuO/Cu2O/Cu0) nanophase equilibria, and performance H2-production/CO2-reduction. Converging literature evidence shows that, because photocorrosion, single-phase Cu-oxides would not be favorable to used as a standalone cathodic catalyst/electrode; however, their heterojunctions coupling with proper partner materials is an encouraging approach. Distinction between role various factors required protect material from e.g., use hole scavengers/electron acceptors, band-gap engineering, nano-facet selectivity CO2-reduction pathways, name few possible solutions. this context, herein examples synthesis efforts that aim clarify interfaces, faces, phase photocatalytic conditions.